



.Vv^ 








• ^ ^^ *i5^ 























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THE 



HISTORY AND TOPOGRAPHY 



DAUPHIN, CUMBERLAND, FRANKLIN, BEDFORD, ADAMS, PERRY, 
ERSET, CAiMBRIA & INDIANA COUNTIES: 



CONTAINING A BRIEF HISTOKT OF THE FIRST SETTLERS, NOTICES 
OF THE LEADING EVENTS, INCIDENTS AND INTERESTING 
FACTS, BOTH GENKRAL AND LOCAL, IN THE HISTOIIT 
OF THESE COUNTIES, GENERAL & STATISTICAL 
DESCRIPTIONS OF ALL THE PRINCIPAL BO- 
ROUGHS, TOWNS, VILLAGES, &C., 



APPENDIX: 



EMBELUSHED WITH SEVERAL ENGRAVINGS. 



COMPILED FROM AUTHENTIC SOURCES 
BY I. DA]\IEL RUPP, 

AUTHOR OF HE PASA EKKLESIA, &c , Sec, ic 



a 



GILBERT HILLS, PROPRIETOR & PUBLISHER, 
LANCASTER CITY, PA, 

1848. 



r/.57. 



Entered according to an Act of Congress, 
BY GILBERT HILLS, PROPRIETOR, LANCASTER, 

In the Clerk's Office of the District Court for the Eastern District of 
Pennsylvania. 



P 



%i) 



PREFACE 



In this compilation, it has heen my object to present, by 
way of introduction, a brief sketch of the earliest settlements 
made within the counties, of which a history and topography 
are attempted ; a detailed account is given of the adventures, 
sufferings and trials of pioneer settlers. I have studiously 
avoided giving place to any thing of a speculative character. 
Any remarks of my own, were made on a careful examination 
of such evidence as will stand scrutiny. The plan, I pur- 
sued, is that of making authentic documents speak for them- 
selves, from which the reader may draw his own deductions. 
In several instances, I have introduced well grounded tradi- 
tion ; and, as far as practicable, when exhibiting the suffer- 
ings of the first settlers, letters and narratives, written when 
they suffered, are given, expressing, it is believed, in their 
own words, with all the freshness of novelty, their trials and 
difficulties, much better than I could have done. 

The reader will readily perceive, that I have made no at- 
tempt, in this compilation, at what has the semblance of or- 
iginality — embellishments of style. This is not said to di- 
vert the critic in pointing out what is faulty. — Any defect, 
or inaccuracy, noticed by the reader, and pointed out, in a 
proper spirit, will be considered a favor. 

That this compilation is defective, none can be more con- 
scious of, than I am. But none need look for a perfect his- 
tory of the kind, till a greater accumulation of historical facts, 
for this purpose, is extant. Whether I have, as the result 
of my researches, contributed any the least towards such a 
collection, is left to the decision of others. I strove to do so 
— This is all I could do. 



VI PREFACE. 

To my personal friends, who have been pleased to promise 
contributions, and have redeemed their promises, I am under 
obligations. I am in a special manner indebted to the Hon- 
orable Jesse Miller, Secretary of the Commonwealth, and 
to his clerks, for faciHties afforded me while examining the 
Archives of the State. 

Compiler. 

Lancaster, Pa. 1846- 



ERRAT A. 



For the errors noted in the foUoM'ing lis^, and for otheis, 
he may not have detected, the Compiler assigns, that circum- 
stances prevented him from revising the C07npilatio7i in its 
progress through the press, and correct the proof sheet, as 
an apology. 

(D^ la means line yroma&oye; Ih Yme from below ; / line; 

Page 43, 16 lb, read $200^ or $300 ; p 45, 11 lb, for 
fanielien, read familien (p. 45 and 46, a number of ortho- 
graphical errors) p 43, 3 lb, for often r after ; p 48, 15 lb, 
for not also, r unless ; p 48, 5 lb, for Schotter's, r Schlatter's ; 
p 48, 1 b, for Gergans, r Germans ; p 49, 1 la, strike out 
Reformirten after Schlatter; p49, 3 lb, r East Pennsboro; 
p 50, 2 la, for Tustus, read Justus ; p 50, 6 lb, for Schniedt, 
r Schmiedt ; p 51, 14 lb, for occasion, r occasioned ; p 51, 
5 lb, for disserting plan, r dissenting place ; 55, 10 la, strike 
out were, before granted ; 69, 8 la, for Floster, r Ffoster ; 
(similar errors in several pages) 77, 9 lb, for Bigboor, r Big 
cove ; 79, 2 la, for effect, r effects ; 80, 9 la, for Mnchmudy, 
r Auchmudy ; 8 6 lb, should read, I do not like their com- 
pany ; 83, 11 la, for writing, r waiting ; 87, 4 la, for nature, 
r nation ; 87, 8 lb, for any, r my ; 89, 4 la, insert an after 
from ; 94, 7 la, for buried, r burned ; 100, 14 la, for Eoldd- 
ward, r Old Edward ; 108, 11 lb, for deprivations, r depre- 
dations ; 104, 4 la, for Peter's, r Potter's ; 109, for raised 
in Bradford, r resided in Bedford ; on p 114, erase three 
lines at the bottom ; 116, 3 la, for Fronkstown, r Franks- 
town ; 116, 4 lb, for eft, r left ; 117, 26 lb, read fearful of 
being burnt, asked &c., not being &c., 119, 18 la, for Zachen, 
r Sachen ; 129, 25 la, lor McCommon, r McCamman ; 136, 
4 lb, for shot two Indians, read shot by two Indians ; 136, 

1 la, for what, r which ; 143, 9 lb, for Geo. r Gov. 147, 15 
la, for Donnellon, r Donnellan ; 155, 7 lb, for Woodrock, r 
Woodcock; 157, 11 lb, for constitute, r constitutes; 157, 

2 lb, for agrressor, r aggressors ; 162,2 la, for separated, r 
exasperated ; 163, 17 la, for greatly, r guilty ; 169, 13 lb, 
for pourpting, r purporting ; 172, 15 la, for spiritual, r 
spirited ; 190, 13 lb, for acquaint, r acquit ; 199, 1 la, for 



VIU ERRATA. 

keys, r kegs ; 201, 2 ]a, for Buck, r Bucks ; 204,20 lb, for 
Rinagel, r Binagel ; 208, 2 lb, for Mayhantayo, v Mahan- 
tango ; 213, 12 Ja, for husband, r husbandman ; 213, 11 lb, 
for operatives, r operations; 218, 10 la, for 4,285, read 
1,825; 248, 1 lb, for in, r into; 264, 19 la, for their, r 
three; 278, for Michael Jiushach, r Ansbach ; 281, for 
George Hvyer, r Hoyer; 282, opposite the rame of Jacob 
Bucher, for £1, 10^, r 1 shilHng lOi ; 284, 61b, between 
the words vestry and co?itracted, i by their building com- 
mittee Jacob Bucher, John Kelker and John Zinn ; 289, 20 
la, after the name Adam Boyd, insert Jacob Bucher ; 298, 
U la, for Stern, r Stem ; 294, 17 la, read, 1844, instead of 
1846; 295, read Rauch, instead of Gauch ; 297, the Luth. 
Sab. School has 475 vols, instead of 225 ; 395, 3 lb, read 
compliment, instead of complement ; 391, 24 la, read is, not 
are ; 385, 13 lb, Potter, not Porter ; 414, 15 la, surmount- 
ed, not surmounts; 431, 19 la, Croghad's, read Croghan's : 
341, 7 lb, contracted, read continued ; 439, 11 la, read Lou- 
ther ; 440, 25 lb, for not, read none; 440, 2 lb, Mary, read 
xMartha ; 444, 23 lb. Cedar Hill, read Spring ; 446, 2 la, 
Fracht, read Tracht ; 447, 15 lb, years, read years ago ; 
456,21 lb, Jinticturn, read Antietum ; 458, 2l la, when, 
read where ; 467, 21 la, Conrad Mercer, read Colonel Mer- 
cer ; 468, 27 lb, Fishbite, read Tishbite ; 448,7 1b, west 
read east ; 471, 19 la, Diaguothian, read Diagnothian ; 480, 
14 lb, doing, read daring ; 495, 7 lb. Great George, read 
gorge ; 496, 3 lb, Jacob Rieg/er, read Ziegler ; 498, 26 lb, 
Long Resch read Reach; 499, ll la, sutlers, read suttleis: 
499, 16 la, Loyel Harmer, read Loyal Hanna ; — similar er- 
rors in the sequel — 505, 24 lb, Yicrey, read Vicroy ; 509, 
6 lb, Sireo, read Lirio ; 509, 4 lb, Satifolia, read Latifolia : 
510, 1 lb, Encrim, read Encrini ; 5l0, 20 1b, Stoneycast, 
read Stonecast ; 513, 24 lb, Dauphin, read Dublin ; 482. 
13 lb, Schnecbery, read Schnecberg ; 489, 7 lb, Barru, read 
Barre ; 493, Broad Tay township, read Broad Top ; 519, 
1744, read 1749; 589, 61b, Tornefs, read Farney's ; 553, 
18 lb, bearing, read becoming ; 553, 4 lb, ore, read are ; 
561, 5 la, Lammer, read Tammer. 



INDEX 



A. 



PAGE 
59 
59 



Armstrong John killetl 
Arnold Woodward killed 
Armstrong John Col. his let- 
ters, 92, 116, 128, 133, 135,181,344,393,421 

His expedition to Kittaning, 115 

Archer Elizabeth killed 12'2 

Armstrong's creek 219 

Aquanuschioui, or Six Nations 350 

Amherson's run 456 

Antietum creek 4o(> 

Adams county 519 

Abbottstovvn 535 

Bloonifield 552 

B. 

Burns Patrick abducted 07 
Burd James, his letter 92 
Bell James, his encounter 103 
Blair James and John killed 104 
Boyd William killed 104 
Barnet John killed 104 
Bigham Fort destroyed 109 
Boyd Mrs. sons and daughters ab- 
ducted 118 
Mrs. Bogg's made prisoner IIS 
Bernhill Andrew killed 125 
Blair William killed 128 
Burd's letter to Gov. Morris 393 
Barton Thomas Rev. his letters 133, 257 
Beaty Mr. murdered 131 
Busse Christian his letter ).3-2 
Bouquet Henry Col. his letter 145, 151 
Brown, a teacher and scholars killed 149 
Bow run 820 
Beaver creek 220 
Bucher C. J. Revd. 233 
Bridge at Harrisburg 269 
Brainerd Rev. at Chambers' 299, 334 
Brushy Rockville 308 
Berrysburg 333 
Big Cove, first settlers in removed 382 
Braddock's letter to Gov. Morris .391 
Bridge Port 483 
Bedford 495 
Bedford Springs 508 
Bendersville 536 
Bonnaghtown 536 
Boundary line, &c. 537 
Baird's abduction 543 

C. 

Catholics in 1757 49 

Croghan George his letter 71 
Chambers Benjamin his letters 90, 349 

Coxe's widow two sons abducted 98 

Culbertson Alexander killed 101 

Chambers William killed 104 

Culbertson John killed 129 

Craig John killed 125 

Cisney and others abducted 139 



Christ Church of Phila. relieved page 
sufferers 146 
Cample .loseph killed 71 
Conestogo Indians killed 183 
Carlisle, Stump re-^cued at 173 
Early incidents at 35^5,412 
Cunningham's deposition 181 
Clark's creek 219 
Conewago creek 221 
Conjuror at Harris' 250 
Churches at Harrisburg 277 
Catholic church 295 
Clapliam's instructions from Gov- 
ernor Morris 310 
his reply to Gov. Moiris 312 
Carson John his letter 323 
Coxtown 331 
Cumberland I ounty 346 
Conodogwinel 373 
Cedar Spring 37-4 
Cave, near Carlisle 374 
Cenireville 42S 
Churchtown 432 
Centre Square 433 
Chartier Peter 436 
Craighead's communication 440 
Conococheague creek 456 
Cove run 4-56 
Chambersburg 461 
Crunklelon 482 
Concord 4-!4 
Conewago creek 52.'» 
Cash town •''3'i 

J). 

Devoy Henry abducted ti7 

Denny William killed 104 

Dickey Elizabeth abducted I3l 

Doctor John, an Indian, murdered 15:* 
D.iuphin county, 201 ; first townships 
in, 203 ; names of early settlers 204 ; - 
erected, 208; geological features. 

209; census of, in 1840 215 

Derry township organized 203 

Duncan's Island 33.3 

Dickinson College 4 Hi 

Dickey's run 456 

K. 

Evans John abducted 67 
Elder John Rev. his letters 95, 164, 302 

Enslow Andrew killed 12S» 

Exhumation of remains of, &C. 1-50 

East Berlin -531 



French Mr.& Mrs. killed 
Finlay John killed 
Fincher killed 
Fishing creek 
Fisher George Capt. 



100 
129 
144 
219 
273 



INDEX. 



Forts and block houses erected east 

of the Susquehanna river 299 

Fort Hunter 
Franklin 
Fairview 
Frogiown 
Franklin county 
Falling Spring 
Funkstown 
Fannetsburg 
Fairview 
Fort Littleton 
Fairfield 



301 

asi 

438 
444 

449 



J. PAOB 

Jones Jacob and Henry killed 104 

Jameson's letters 315 

Jacobs Captain 353 

Juniata, first white settlers on removed 380 



K. 



King Jacob killed 

450, 461 Kerr William and Robert killed 

482 Kelly John killed 

484 Kerrel Hugh killed 

513 Kirkpatrick killed 

513 King-ston 
536 



Germans, brief sketch of 37 

German settlers in Cumberland 49 

Galbreath James his letters 69, 123, J24 

Gibson widow killed 113 

Granville Fort attacked & destroyed 114 Linglestown 
Gibson William killed 129 Letort creek 

Graydon alludes to sickness at Har- Lisburn 

risburg in 1792- '4 
alludes to western insurrection 
Governor Morris at Harris's 
Galbreath William his letters 
German Reformed church at Harris 

burg 
German Lutheran church 
Galbreath Bartram, his letter 
Greensburg or Dauphin 
Gralztown 
Greencaslle 
Gettysburg 

H. 
Hutchison George abducted 
Hostilities between French k Eng. 
Harris John his letters, 81, 86, 88, 250, 

251, 252, 253, 254, 257 



Le Roy Anne Mary abducted 
Layson John killed 
Leonard Long, his son killed 
Landis's mill 
Lutheran church at Harrisburg 



481 
526 



67 
73 



Hamilton Hance his letters 
Heckewelder, extract from 
Hoops Adam his letters 
Holiday James killed 
Henderson Allen killed 
Harper Janet abducted 
Hanover township erected 
Harris settled at Peixtaa 
Harrisburg, at present 
Halifax 
Hill Island 
Hummelstown 
Highspire 
Huling Marcus 
Hoge's run 
Hdguestown 
Hampton 



Hunterstown 
Heidlersberg 


536 
536 


I. 

Immigration westward 
Indian's friendship 
Irish, or Scotch Irish 
Indians killed at Conestoga 
Ice flood 


36 

37 

51 

162 

231 


Insurrection western 


273 



245 Licking creek 
275 Loudon 
258 Licking creek 
262 Latimore creek 

Littlestown 
2S2 Liverpool, Landisburg &, Loysville 
294 
303 M 

332 Magenty Alexander abducted s 

333 Morns' remarks on Braddock's defeat 
Mitchelltree Mrs. killed 
McCoy Daniel killed 
McCarty John killed 
Martin James killed 
M'cullough James abducted 
Miller Robert hLs daughter killed 
McDonald James and William ; B, 

105, 115 M'caflerty and A. McQuoid killed 
86 Martin John killed 
93, 94, 115 McKinley William killed 

128 Miller Alexander killed 

129 Mitchel Joseph and William killed 
129 M'cammon jane abducted 

Mitchel Margaret her letter 
Manson William and son killed 
M'cracken John killed 
Mauerer George killed 
Mackey James murdered 
Mahantongo creek 
Manady creek 

334 Montgomery Revd. 
373 Monacatootha died at Harris' 
430 Mount Airy Waterworks 
535 Methodist church at Harrisburg 

McAllister's town 

Middletown 

Millersburg 

Manor on conedoguinettc 

Means' run 

Mountain creek 

Mechanicsburg 

Middlesex 

Milltown 

Marsh run 



79 
104 
104 
122 
129 
433 



80 
104 
130 
237 
286 
331 
373 
433 
45« 
476 
512 
523 
S36 
554 



67 
78 
100 
104 
104 
109 
109, 148 
113 



206 
223 
265 
308 
330 
330 
331 



Indian wigwams in Cumberland co. 352 Mercersburg 

Immigrants influx into North valley 357 Mayer Lewis, D. D. 

Intruders upon Indian lands removed 379 Marion 

Ickesburg 554 Martinsburg 



122 
128 
128 
129 
129 
129 
129 
130 
130 
131 
131 
219 
220 
235 
251 
269 
219 
307 
326 
332 
353, 35« 
373 
374 
429 
430 
444 
456 
467 
468, 
4S2 
511 



INDEX. 



XI 



M'connell's town 

Mummasburg 

McSlierrystown 

Millerstown 

Milford 



PAGE PAGB 

512 Rankin And. B. Esq. his letter 150 

536 Rocktown 331 

537 Roxberry 430 
553 Roxbury 483 
553 Rainsburg 513 



N. 



Neulaender 42 

Nicholson Owen abducted 67 

Nicholass Edwards killed 100 

Newspapers published at harrisburg 
276, ai Carlisle, at Shippensburg, at 
chambersburg, and Newville 428 

Newburgh 4'i8 

New Cumberland 435 

New Oxford 535 

New Port 553 

New Buffalo " 

New Germantown 554 



O. 



Oneidon Dennison killed 


129 


Oak Dale 


333 


Orrstown 


483 


Opposum creek 


525 



Pennsylvania, whence the name 25 

Penn's policy towards the Indians 29 

Petition from Cumberland co. 68, 120 

Plan of defence 73 

Penn's creek, petition from 79 

Potter John his letters 91 

Paynter Jacob killed 104 

Peace John killed 104 

Perry Samuel killed 122 

Pendergrass' daughter killed 129 

Patterson's letter to John Peun 176 

" to Sbawana Ben 177 
Peshtank or Paxtoa twp. organized 203 

Powel's creek 219 

Paiion creek 219 

Public improvements in D. co 221 

Pumpkinflood 231 

Presbyterian church at harrisburg 2S8 

" at Carlisle 420 

Portsmouth 328 

Path Valley first settlers removed 382 
Peter Richard his report on removing 

intruders from Indian lands 379 

Packhorses 376 

Papertown 429 

Pennsylvania college . 532 

Petersburg 534 

Perry eounty 545 

Petersburg 553 

Q- 

Quarrels between Irish and German 55 

Quincy 482 

R. 

Redemption servants 46 

Reformed German number of 48 

Reynolds John killed 104 

Robinson James killed 104 

Ramsey Betty and son killed 110 

Robinson Hugh abducted 110 

Reed Adam his letters 124, 127 

Rush Robert killed 130 



Sauers Christopher his letter 42 

Smith James killed 59 

Smith James abducted 75 

Shingas, notice of 77 

Sheridan and his family killed 100 

Scott Francis killed 104 

Shippen E. his letters, 74, 106, 171, 316, 426 

Settlers fled m Dauphin co. 125, 126 

Springson killed 129 

Steenson Robert killed 129 

Stanwix colonel his letters 133 

Stimble Isaac killed " 152 

Smith Adam his letter 155 

Slump killed ten Indians, 173, 178, 179 

Shawana Ben's letter - 177 

Seneca George's son shot 192 

Susquehanna river 218 

Stoney creek 219 

Spring and Swatara creeks 220 

Slate house 268 
Snyderstown and Silvers' spring 333, 373 

Shippensburg 424 
Stoughsiown, Springfield, Smoketown 428 

Shepperdslown, Shiremanstowu 433 

Sporting hill, Snow hill 444,482 

Si. Thomas 483 

Shellsburg, Stoncrslown 513 



Terrance Adam, his declaration 84 

Tiiil and family killed 152 

Trindle Spring 430 

Theol. Sem. of Ger. Reformed church 467 

U. 

Union W. M. church, at Harrisburg 296 

Union Bethel - 297 

Upton church, and Upper Strasburg 484 

W. 

Wright Thomas killed 38 

Weiser Conrad at Shamokin 6J 

his letters, 83, 84, 85, 87, 249, 255, 300, 319 

"Whitehill Robert 438 

Wilson Mrs. killed 113 

Woods John and wife killed 122 

William Walker killed 128 

Wiley John, and Wilson's son killed 129 

Watson James killed 130 

Williams Isaac his wife killed 131 

AVoodcock valley, persons killed 156 

Wisconisco creek 219 

Wallace Joseph his letter 269 

Western insurrection 273 
Washington at Harrisburg, 273, at 

Carlisle, 418; at Bedford. 

Wisconisco 333 

Whiles intrude upon Indian lands 367 

Worleystown 421 

Wormleysburg, Whitehill 438 
Waynesboro, Woodberry 482, 513 

Waynesburg, Werefordsburg 512 

Warm Springs 541 



XU INDEX. 

PAGE r/.GE 

Y. ■ York Sulpliur Springs 634 

Yellow r\m 220 

Young James his letters 321, 394, 461 Z. 

Yellow Breeches creek 373 Zinachsoii, or Shamokin 304 



INTRODUCTION. 



CHAPTER I. 

Pennsylvania named in honor of Sir William Penn — William Penn 
receives a charter from King Charles II. — Boundary of the Province 
— Penn's policy towards the aborigines — Similar policy had been 
pursued, in some measure, by others — Markham, in obedience to 
Penn's instructions, purchases lands from the Indians — Repeated 
purchases made — Deeds to John Penn, Thomas Penn and Richard 
Penn — Deeds of 1749 and 1754 — William Penn's stay in, and depar- 
ture from, the Province — His return to the Province : return to Eng- 
land : his death — Influx of immigrants — Settlements extend west- 
ward — Swiss settlement — Huguenots settlement — Scotch, Irish, and 
Irish settlements in Lancaster county, &c. — Settlements extend up 
along the Susquehanna river — Settlements comraenceH on the west 
side of the Susquehanna, in York county — Settlements west of the 
Susquehanna in North, or Kittochtinny Valley— Earliest settlements 
first among the Indians — Indians' friendship towards the first settlers* 

If it were in accordance with the general design of this 
compilation, much might be said of the spirit of the age in 
which the founder of the Province of Pennsylvania lived. The 
main object in view, is to notice some of the leading incidents, 
events, and historical facts, in connection with the present 
.state or condition of several counties of Pennsylvania. 

Pennsylvania, or the Province of Pennsylvania, was named 
by King Charles II., in honor of the son of Giles Penn, Sir 
William Penn, an Admiral ot the English Navy, who com- 
manded the British fleet in Oliver Cromwell's time* and in 
the beginning of the reign ol Charles II. 

In a letter to Robert Turner, William Penn says, that the King would 
have il called " by the name of Pennsilvania" in honor of his (William 
Penn's) father. The following is a copy of the letter : 

" To Robert Turner, 5th of 1st Mo. 168 J. 

Dear Friend, 

My true love in the Lord salutes thee, and dear friends that love the 

3 



26 



INTRODUCTION". 



Lord's precious truth in those parts. Thine I have, and for my business 
here, know that after many waitings, watchings, solicitings and disputes 
in council, this day my country was confirmed to me under the great 
seal of England, with large powers and privileges, by the name of Pen>t- 
silvania, a name the king would give it in honor of my father. I chose 
New Wales, being as this, a pretty hilly country, but Pcnn being Welsh 
for a head, as Penynanmoire in Wales, and Penrith in Cumberland, and 
Penn in Buckinghamshire, the highest land in England, called this Penn- 
sUvania, which is the high or head woodlands ; for I proposed when the 
Secretary — a Welshman — refused to have it called New Wales, Sylva- 
nia, and they added Pemi to it; and though I much opposed it, and went 
to the king to have it struck out and altered, he said 'twas past, and 
would take it upon him; nor could twenty guineas move the under 
secretarys to vary the name, for I feared least it should be lookt on as 
a vanity in me, and not as a respect in the king, as it truly was to my 
father, whom he often mentions with praise. Thou mayat communicate 
my graunt to friends, and expect shortly my proposals : 'tis a clear and 
just thing, and my God that has given it me through many difficultys 
will, I believe, bless and make it the seed of a nation. I shall have a 
tender care to the government, that it will be well laid at first: no ipore 
now, but dear love in truth. 

Thy true friend, 

W. Penn. 

Sir William Penn, the Admiral, for services rendered, and 
in consideration of sundry debts, due him from the crown, had 
a promise made him, from King Charles II., of a large tract 
of land in America ; but he died before he obtained it. 

William Penn, son of Sir William, while at Oxford, pursuing 
his studies, hearing the distinguished Thomas Loe, a Quaker, 
preach, imbibed religious sentiments of the Friends; and 
seemed, for some time to care little about the promised grant 
which the King had made his father; he, therefore, did not 
urgently press his claims upon the crown; till at last hnding 
that those, whose sentiments he had imbibed, and whose cause, 
in common with the cause of all the oppressed, he espoused, 
were harassed every where in England by spiritual courts, 
resolved to put himself at the head of as many as would go 
with him, and remove to this country; of which he bad ob- 
tained a grant from Charles II. 

There were several acts passed about the middle of the seventeenth 
century that were oppressive to non-confwrnhts. The Oxford act of 1653 
banished non-conforming ministers five miles from any corporate town 
sending members to Parliament, and prohibited them from keeping or 
teaching schools. The I'est act of the same year was still more se- 
vere. The dreadful consequences of this intolerant spirit was, that not 
less than from six to eight thousand died in prison in the reign of 
Charles II. It is said that Mr. Jeremiah White had carefully collected 



INTRODUCTION. 



27 



a list of those who had suffered between Charles II. and the revo- 
lution, which amounted to sixty thousand — De Laune's Plea, Ifc. 

The Province, or the lower part of it, had been called 
" JYew Netherlands,'''* and was begun to be planted by some 
Dutchmen and others. It is called Pennsylvania in the orig- 
inal Patent, bearing date March 4th, 1681. It contained all 
that tract of land in America, Math all the Islands belonging 
to it, from the beginning of the 40th to the 43d degree of 
north latitude, whose eastern bounds, from^twelve miles above 
New Castle, otherwise Delaware town, run all along upon 
the side of the Delaware river — these bounds and extent were 
get down in the original grant ; but Mr. Penn having after- 
wards obtained part of JYova Belgia from the Duke of York, 
it was added to the country given in the first grant, so that 
it extends now to the 38th degree and 55 minutes north lati- 
tude."* 

Soon after Penn had obtained a charter, he made sales to 
adventurers, called first settlers, who embarked the same year, 
and arrived in America, at Upland, now Chester, December 
11, 1681. Penn, with many of his oppressed friends, sailed 
next year, landed at New Castle, October 27, 1682. 

Penn, who was wholly devoted to the best interests of his 
colony, did all that lay in his power to secure the continued 
friendship of the aborigines, or Indians, to whom, of right, 
belonged the soil — " the woods and the streams" — though, 
according to the custom of conquest, and in conformity to the 
practices of the whites of Europe, a contrary principle had 
generally, if not universally obtained; and, in conformity to 
that principle, and by virtue of his charter, Penn might le- 
gally have claimed an indisputable, or an undoubted right to 
the soil granted him by Charles II. ; but he " was influenced 
by a purer morality, and sounder policy, than that prevailing 
princijjle \Khich actuated the more sordid. His religious prin- 
ciples did not permit him to wrest the soil of Pennsylvania by 
force from the people to whom God and nature gave it, nor 
to establish his title in blood ; but under the shade of the lofty 
trees of the forest, his right was fixed by treaties with the 
natives, and sanctified, as it were, by smoking from the calu- 
met of peace."! 

• See Emanuel Bowman's Geography, vol. 2, p. 655; printed at 
London, 1747 — Bowman was Geographer to his Majesty, King of 
England. 

f Smith's Laws of Pa., ii., 105. 



28 



INTRODUCTION. 



The enlightened founder of Pennsylvania, was governed, 
in his intercourse with the Indians, " by immutable principles 
of justice, which every where, and for all purposes, must be 
regarded as fundamental, if human exertions are to be crown- 
ed with noble and permanent results." In the constitution 
of this colony it was provided, that " no man shall, by any 
ways or means, in word or deed, affront or wrong an Indian, 
but he shall incur the same penalty of the lavv^ as if he had 
committed it against his fellow planter, and if any Indian 
shall abuse, in word or deed, any planter of the province, he 
shall not be his own judge upon the Indian, but he shall make 
his complaint to the governor, or some inferior magistrate 
near him, who shall, to the utmost of his power, take care 
with thinking of the said Indian, that all reasonable satisfac- 
tion be made to the injured planter. All differences between 
the planters and the natives shall be ended by twelve men ; 
that is, six planters and six natives ; that so we may live 
friendly together as much as in us lieth, preventing all occa- 
sions of heart-burnings and mischiefs — the Indians shall have 
liberty to do all things relative to improvement of their 
ground, and providing sustenance for their families, that any 
of their planters shall enjoy."* 

A principle had obtained in Europe, that a newly discovered coun- 
try belonged to the nation, whose people first discovered it. Eugene 
IV. and Alexander VI., successively granted to Portugal and Spain all 
the countries possessed by infidels, which should be occupied by the 
industry of their subjects, and subdued by the force of their arms. 
The colotiies, established in North America, were founded upon more 
equitable principles. In almost every instance, possession of the 
country was taken with the least possible injury to the aborigines. 
The land was purchased from the natives. Belknap says, "it was 
a common thing in New England to make fair and regular purcha- 
ses;" many of their deeds are still preserved in the public records. 
Numerous instances, showing that purchases were made, might be 
quoted ; a ie'w must suffice. 

Calvert, a Catholic, when he planted his colony, in the province 
of Maryland, commenced in 1634, with an act of justice — he pur- 
chased of the savage proprietors, a right to the soil, before he took 
possession, for a compensation with which the Indians were satisfied. 
— Haw's Contribution, i. 2.3. 

Roger Williams, a Baptist, on his expulsion from Massachusetts, 
in 1636, went to Seconk, where he procured a grant of land from 
dsaniaquin, the chief Sachem of Pokanot. He honestly purchased their 
land, and a sufficiency of it, for his liitle colony ; he was uniformly 

* Proud's His. Pa., ii. Appen. 3, 4. 



INTRODUCTION. 29 

the Indian's friend, and neglected no opportunity of [ameliorating 
their condition, and elevating their character. — Holmes' Annals, i. 233. 

The Swedes, landing at Inlopen, 1637 or 1638, on the western 
shore of Delaware bay, proceeded up the river, opened communica- 
tions with the Indians, and purchased from them the soil upon the 
■west shore, from the capes of the falls at Sankikans, opposite to the 
present city of Trenton. Philip Carteret, appointed Governor (1665) 
of New Jersey, purchased from the Indians, their titles to all the lands 
which were occupied. — Frost's U. S. 130. 

William Penn made repeated purchases from the Indians. His sons 
followed the same praiseworthy example. 

Prior to Penn's arrival, he had instructed William Mark- 
ham, the deputy Governor, who arrived in Pennsylvania in 
1681, to hold treaties with the Indians, to procure their lands 
peaceably. Markham, a short time previous to Penn's arri- 
val, held such a treary, July 15, 1682, for some lands on the 
Delaware river. Penn held similar treaties; and before his 
return to Engknd, in 1684, adopted measures " to purchase 
the lands on the Susquehanna from the Five Nations, who 
pretended a right to them, having conquered the people for- 
merly settled there.^' The Five Nations resided principally 
in New York ; and Penn's time being too much engrossed to 
visit them personally, he engaged Thomas Dongan, Gov. of 
New York, to purchase from the Indians, " all that tract of 
land lying on both sides of the river Susquehanna, and the 
lakes adjacent in or near the province of Pennsylvania." 
Dongan effected a purchase, and conveyed the same to Wil- 
liam Penn, January 13, 16^6, "in consideration of one hun- 
dred pounds sterling."* 

It was Penn's object to secure the river through the whole 
extent of the province; and subsequent transactions with the 
Indians show how careful he was to have this purchase well 
confirmed. 

"September 13th, 1700; Wiclagh and Jindaggy-junk- 
qvngh, Kings or Sachems of the Susquehanna Indians, and of 
the river under that name, and lands lying on both sides 
thereof. Deed to W. Penn for all the said river Susquehan- 
nagh, and all the islands therein, and all the lands situate, 
lying and being upon both sides of the said river, and next 
adjoining the same, to the utmost confines of the lands which 
are, or formerly were, the right of the people or nation called 
the^Susquehannagh Indians, or hy what name soever they were 

• Smith's Laws, Pa., ii., 111. 
3 



30 INTRODUCTION. 

called, as fully and amply as we or any of our ancestors, have, 
could, might or ought to have had, held or enjoyed, and also 
confirm the bargain and sale of the said lands, made unto Col. 
Thomas Dongan, now Earl of Limerick, and formerly Gover- 
nor of New York, whose deed of sale to said Governor Penn 
we have seen."* 

The sale to WilUam Penn from the Five Nations was thus 
well confirmed ; the Conestoga Indians, however, would not 
recognize the validity of this sale, believing that the Five 
Nations had no proper authority to transfer their possessions, 
to secure the lands conveyed to him by Dongan. Penn entered 
into articles of agreement, shortly after his second visit to 
Pennsylvania, with the Susquehanna, Potomac and Cones- 
toga Indians. The agreement is dated April 23, 1701. In 
this agreement the Indians ratified and confirmed Governor 
Dongan's deed of January, 1696, and the deed by Widagh 
and Andaggy-junkquagh, of September 13, 1700.1 

Notwithstanding all these sales and transfers, (he lands on 
the west side of the Susquehanna were still claimed by the 
Indians; for the words in the deed of Sept. 13, 1700, ^hiext 
adjoiriing the same,'' were considered inconsistent with an 
extensive western purchase; and the Indians of the Five 
Nations still continued to claim a right to the river and the 
adjoining lands. The sachems or chiefs, with all the others 
of the Five Nations, met in the summer of 1736, at a great 
council held in the country of the Onondagoes, in the State 
of New York; and as the old claims had not as yet been ad- 
justed, they resolved, that an end should be put to all dis- 
putes connected with it. They accordingly appointed their 
Sachems or chiefs with plenary powers to repair to Philadel- 
phia, and there among other things, settle and adjust all de- 
mands and claims, connected with the Susquehanna and the 
adjoining lands. On their arrival at Philadelphia, they re- 
newed old treaties of friendship, and on the 11th of October, 
1736, made a deed to John Penn, Thomas Penn, and Rich- 
ard Penn, their heirs, successors and assigns. The deed 
was signed by twenty-three Indian chiefs of the Onondaga, 
Seneca, Oneida and Tuscarora nations, granted the Penn's 
"all the said river Susquehanna, with the lands lying on 
both sides thereof, to extend eastw^ard as far as the heads 
of the branches or springs which run into the said Sus- 
* Book F, vol. viii., p. 242. f Smith's Laws, Pa., ii., 112. 



INTRODUCTION. 31 

quehanna, and all the lands lying on the west side of the said 
river to the setting of the sun, and to extend from the mouth 
of the said river, northward, up the same to the hills or moun- 
tains, called in the language of said nations, Tayamentasachta, 
and by the Delaware Indians the Kekachtajinin hills."* Thus 
were the claims of the Indians upon the lands of this part of 
Pennsylvania relinquished to the proprietors ; nevertheless 
surveys had been authorized to be made, and had actually 
been made west of the Susquehanna prior to 1736, by both 
the Governor of Maryland and the Governor of Pennsylvania. 
The last recited deed comprised nearly (besides much more 
territory) all that lay within the limits of the counties, of 
which a history is here given, except that portion north of the 
Kittatinny, or Blue Mountain, constituting the northern part 
of Dauphin, and the whole of Perry & Bedford. That portion 
in Dauphin, north of the Kittatinny mountain was purchased, 
including a larger tract of country, in 1749; the deeds were 
executed on the 22d day of August, and may be found at large 
in Smith's Laws of Pennsylvania. That portion within Perry, 
and some contiguous counties west of the Susquehanna, and 
north of Perry, was purchased in 1754 — the deed was exe- 
cuted at Albany, July 6th. 

The deed of August 22d, 1749, is as follows : 
We, Canasatago, Sataganachly, Kanalshyiacayon and Can- 
echwadeeron, sachems or chiefs of the Indian nation, called 
Onontagers, Cayanockea, Kanatsany-Agash Tass, Caruchi- 
anafihaqui, sachems or chiefs of the Indian nation, called the 
Sinickers. Peter Ontachsax and Christian Diaryhogon, sa- 
chems or chiefs of the Indian nation, called the Mohocks : 
Saristagnoah, Watshatuhon and Jinuchnaxqua, sachems or 
chiefs of the Indian nation, called the Oneyders. Tawis- 
Tawis, Kachnoaraaseha, and Takachquoritas, sachems or 
chiefs of the Indian nation, called Cctn/iukers. Tyierox, Bal- 
ichwanonach-shy, sachems or chiefs of the Indian nation, called 
the Tuscororow, lachnechdorus, Sagogukhiafhon, and Cach- 
naora-katack-ke, sachems or chiefs of the Indian nation, called 
the Shomokon Indians. JYuti'mus and Qualpaghach, sachems 

* Kittatinny, or Blue Mountain. 

f That portion of country between the Blue Mountain and Peters' 
Mountain, was known, at an early period, by the name of Saint Antho- 
Tiy^s Wihieruess ; it is so designated on a map in the Book of Deeds, p. 123, 
in the Secretary's office at Harrisburg — Compiler. 



32 INTRODUCTION. 

or chiefs of the Indian nation, called the Delawares ; and 
Bachsinosa, sachem or chief of the Indian nation, called the 
Shawanese, in consideration of £500, grant, sell, &c., all that 
tract or parcel of land lying and being within the following 
limits and bounds, and thus described — 

Beginning at the hills or mountains called in the language 
of the Five Nation Indians Tycmuntasachta, or Endless Hilts, 
and by the Delaware Indians Kehactany Hills, on the east 
side of the river Susquehanna, being in the northwest line or 
boundary of the tract of land formerly purchased by the said 
proprietaries from the said Indian nations, by their deed of 
the 11th of October, 1736; and from thence running up the 
said river by the several courses thereof to the first of the 
nearest mountains to the north side or mouth of the creek 
called m the language of the said Five Nation Indians Can- 
tagug, and in the language of the Delaware Indians Magho- 
nioy, and from thence extending by a direct or straight line 
to be run from the said mountain on the north side of said 
creek to the main branch of Delaware river at the north side 
of the creek called Lechaivachsem, and from thence across 
Lechawachsein creek aforesaid down the river Delaware by 
the several courses thereof to the Kekachtany Hills aforesaid, 
and from thence by the range of said hills to the place of be- 
ginning, as more fully appears by a map annexed ; and also 
all the parts of the rivers Susquehanna and Delaware from 
shore to shore which are opposite said lands, and all the Isl- 
ands in said rivers, &c. — Book H, vol. 2, p. 204 ; recorded 
May 6, 1752. 

The deed executed at Albany, July 6, 1754, is as follows: 
Henry Peters, Abraham Peters, Blandt, Johannes Satfyho- 
wano, .lohannes Kanadakayon, Abraham Sastagrhedohy, sa- 
chems or chiefs of the Mohawk nation. Aneeghnaxqua Ta- 
raghorus, Tohaghdaghquyserry, alias Kachneghdackon, sa- 
chems or chiefs of the Oneydo nation. Otsinughyada, alias 
Blunt, in behalf of himself and all the sachems and chiefs of 
the Onondago nation. Scanuraty, Tannaghdorus, Tokaaiyon, 
Kaghradodon, sachems or chiefs of the Cayuga nation. Ka- 
hichdodon, alias Groote Younge, Takeghsatu, Tiyonenkoka- 
raw, sachems or chiefs of the Seneca nation. Suntrughwac- 
kon, Sagochsidodagon, Tohashuwangarus Orontakayon, alias 
John Nixon, Tistoaghton, sachems or chiefs of the Tuscarora 
nation in consideration of £400 law^ful money of N. Y., grant, 



INTRODUCTION. 33 

&c., to Thomas & Richard Penn," all the lands lying within the 
said province of Pennsylvania, bounded and limited as follows, 
namely, beginning at the Kittochtinny or Blue hills, on the 
west branch ot the Susquehanna river, and thence by the said, 
a mile above the mouth of a certain creek called Kayarondin- 
hagh; thence northwest and by west as far as the province of 
Pennsylvania extends to its western lines or boundaries; 
thence along the said western line to the south line or boun- 
dary to the south side of the said Kittochtinny hills; thence 
by the south side of said hills, to the place of beginning — Re- 
corded in Book H, vol. 5, p. 392, Feb. 3d, 1755. 

The whites had, in several instances, encroached upon the 
rights of the Indians by settling on their lands before those 
were purchased, which occasioned much complaint on the part 
of the Indians. The intruders were, however, removed by 
force and arms, as will appear from the sequel. See Cumber- 
land county, chap. xxv. 

The course pursued by William Penn, by his deputy gov- 
ernors, and by his sons John, Thomas and Richard, did not 
fail to secure to the colonists the friendship of the Indians for 
half a century or more. It was a course that justice dictat- 
ed; and had been pursued by Calvert, a Catholic, as stated 
before when he planted his colony in the province of Mary- 
land in 1634 — by Roger Williams, a Baptist, on his expulsion 
from Massachusetts, when he went to Seconk, where he pur- 
chased lands from Osamaquin, the sachem of Pokanot, in 
1636 — by Philip Carteret and others, prior to Penn's arrival 
in this country.* 

So much was Penn concerned to have every cause settled 
that might give rise to disputes touching his own rights, and 
of his colonists, that after transacting some business in Gene- 
ral Assembly, he hastened to Maryland, to see Lord Balti- 
more, who had set up claims, arising from indistinctness of 
grant, touching the boundary line between the province of 
Maryland and Pennsylvania. A failure, however, of adjust- 
ing the difficulties at this time, caused the border settlers 
much disquietude for a period of nearly eighty years. The 
final adjustment of the boundary, will be noticed in the se- 
quel- See Adams county. 

Penn, on his first arrival, remained only one year and ten 

* See History of Lancaster county, pp. 16 and 19, and works refer- 
red to. 



34 INTRODUCTION. 

months in the Province; during that time he caused the city 
of Philadelphia to be laid out, and three counties, namely, 
Philadelphia, Bucks and Chester, to be erected in Pennsyl- 
vania. The organization of these counties was completed by 
the appointment of sheriffs and other officers. Before Penn 
sailed for Europe, August 16, 1684, there had been about 
three thousand inhabitants in Pennsylvania. 

In 1699, William Penn and his family once more visited 
the province, and remained till November 1st, 1701, when 
he sailed for England, never to return again. In 1712 he 
was seized by apoplectic fits, which so afflicted his mind as to 
render him unfit for business for the last six years of his Hfe. 
He died July 30, 1718, at Rushcomb, near Twyford, in 
Buckinghamshire, England, aged about seventy-four years. 

From the time Penn first arrived, the influx of immigrants 
was constantly on the increase. English, Welsh, Germans, 
Irish, French, and others sought a home in the new province. 
Settlements were gradually extended north, northwest, and 
west from Philadelphia, towards the Susquehanna river — 
many settled in the midst of the Indians. Among others, as 
pioneer settlers, a considerable distance from Philadelphia, 
were Vincent Caldwell, Thomas Wickershara, Joel Bailey, 
Thomas Hope and Guyan Miller, Quakers, w^ho settled in 
Kennet, Chester county, 1706 or 7. Prior to that, however, 
some adventurers had been among the Indians at Conestoga. 
Of this number was one Lewis Michelle, who had been sent 
out, in the year 1703 or 4, by individuals from the Canton of 
Bern, in Switzerland, to search for vacant lands in Pennsyl- 
vania, Virginia and Carolina.* About the same time there 
were some Indian traders among the traders on the Susque- 
hanna, viz : Joseph Jessop, James Le Tort, Peter Bazalion, 
Martin Chartier, Nicole Goden, and others — all Frenchmen. 
Le Tort afterwards (1720) fixed his cabin at Carlisle. 

The first permanent and extensive settlement made near 
the Susquehanna, was commenced by some Swiss immigrants 
— they were persecuted Mennonites, who had fled from the 
Cantons of Zurich, Bern, SchafFliausen, in Switzerland, to 
Alsace, above Strasburg, where they had remained some time 
before they immigrated to America, in 1707 or 1708, and set- 
tled in the western part of Chester, now Lancaster county, 

• For a fuller account of this adventure, see His. Lan. co., pp. 53, 56. 



INTRODUCTION. 35 

near Pequea creek, within the present limits of West Lampe- 
ter township, where they purchased ten thousand acres of 
land. The principal individuals of this colony were John 
Rudolph Bundely, Martin Kendig, Jacob Miller, Hans Herr, 
Martin Oberholtz, Hans Funk, Michael Oberholtz, Wendel 
Bowman, Hans Meylin, Peter Yorde, Henry Funk, John 
Hauser, John Bachraan. These settled in the midst of Min- 
goe, Conestoga, Pequea and Shawanese Indians, from 
whom they had nothing to fear. They mingled with them 
in fishing and hunting. 

In 1708 or 9, some French Huguenots sailed for America; 
arrived at New York in August, 1709 — after spending a year 
or two at Esopus, in that State, some of them settled in 1712, 
on Pequea creek, near Paradise — these were the Ferees, Le- 
Fever's, Dubois and others. Shortly after these, settlements 
were made in various. parts, within the present limits of Lan- 
caster county, by English, Swiss, Germans, Scotch & Irish, 
principally immigrants — See Article German, and Irish, chap. 
2 and 3. 

Before 1720, settlements had been extended northward be- 
yond the Chickasalunga creek. Donegal township, which 
was organized in 1722, had been principally settled by Irish, 
or Scotch immigrants — Among others were the following, — 
Patterson, Sempel, Mitchell, Hendricks, Speer, Galbraith, 
Anderson, Scott, Pedan, Porter, Kerr, Sterritt, Kern, Work, 
Little, Whitehill, Campbell, Lowrey, McClelland, Stevenson,' 
Wilson, Fulton, Allison, Howard, Brown, Dinsmore, Hughs, 
Robinson, Chambers, McMahen, McDowell, Foster, Crocket, 
Gilson, Woods, Spear, Bailey, McCracken, Cunningham, 
Lyon, Bratchey, Mason, Jameson, Hutchison, Cook, Moore, 
Ramsay, McClure, McFarlane, Brenard, Craig, Thomson, 
Carson, Connelly, Patton, Gallaher, Stewart, Boggs, Kelly, 
Ramsay. 

Settlements were now made northward, and along the Sus- 
quehanna river. John Harris,* a native of Yorkshire, Eng- 
land, had made an attempt, prior to 1725, to settle near the 
mouth of Coiioy creek, not far from the present site of Bain- 
bridge; but it seems he preferred to settle higher up the Sus- 
quehanna, near an Indian village called Peixtan, at or near 
the present site of Harrisburg. Harris was in a few years 

• See Harrisburg. 



36 



INTRODUCTION. 



followed by others, principally emigrants direct from the north 
of Ireland, and some from Donegal township, whose names 
will be given in the sequel. See Dauphin county. 

At this time settlements were also made on the west side 
of the Susquehanna, within the present limits of York county, 
by Germans ; and some English, intruders from Maryland, 
and some Irish on Marsh creek. Samuel Bluntson, agent for 
the proprietors, had received a commission dated January 11, 
1733-4, by which he was authorized to grant licenses to set- 
tle and take up lands on the west side of the Susquehanna. 
The first license issued by him, was dated January 23, 
1733-34. 

The settlements having become considerably extended, and 
the population augmented by an influx of a mixed population 
— immigrants from abroad, and natives of the province, the 
inhabitants of the upper parts of Chester coujty deemed it 
necessary as early as 1728, to avoid inconveniences arising 
daily from the want of "justice at every man's door," to pe- 
tition the proper authorities to erect, and establish a new 
county — a county out of the upper parts of Chester, was 
erected in 1729, in a separate county, called " Lancaster 
county." Lancaster then, and till 1749, embraced York, 
Cumberland, part of Berks, and all the contiguous counties — 
Dauphin was a part of Lancaster county till March 4th, 1785. 

The tide of immigration was still westward. Some Irish 
and Scotch adventurers crossed the Susquehanna at Peixtan, 
Peshtank, or Paxton, and commenced settlements about the 
years 1730-31, in the Kittochtinny Valley, or " North Val- 
ley," west of the Susquehanna, at Falling Springs and other 
places, tdl they extended from the " Long, Crooked River"* 
to the Maryland Province, about the year 1736. Several 
hundred names of the first settlers in this valley will be given 
when speaking of Cumberland and Franklin counties. Pass- 
ing, it might be remarked, that all the earliest settlements 
made in Lancaster, York and Cumberland, were commenced 
when the Indians were still numerous ; when they, and the 
white settlers chased, in common, the deer, the bear, and 
other game, and angled in the same stream teeming with the 
finny race — when they greeted each other with the endearing 

• According to Heckewelder, Susquehanna, is derived from the Indi- 
an word, Sa-os-que-ha-an-unk ; meaning, " Long-crooked-River." 



N 

V 



INTRODUCTION. 



37 



\ y appellation, " brothers." When the young Indian and white 
\ lad cheerily tried their skill as wrestlers and archers ; each 
' striving to gain the mastery, without any grudge toward each 

other. 
S Passing by numerous other cases, of the Indian's friendship 
4:^ towards the first settlers, one is only given. Madame Feree, 
./^her sons and a son-in-law, left Europe in 1708, arrived at 
New York 1709, came to Pennsylvania about 1711 or 1712, 
and commenced a settlement on the Pequea, Chester county, 
(now Lancaster). They were Huguenots — " It was on the 
evening of a summer's day when the Huguenots reached the 
verge of a hill commanding a view of the Valley of the Pe- 
quea ; it was a woodland scene, a forest inhabited by wild 
beasts, for no indication of civilized man was very near; scat- 
tered along the Pequea, amidst the dark green hazel, could 
be discovered the Indian wigwams, the smoke issuing there- 
from in its spiral form : no sound was heard but the songs of 
the birds: in silence they contemplated the beautiful prospect 
which nature presented to their view. Suddenly a number of 
Indians darted from the woods — the females shrieked — when 
an Indian advanced, and in broken English said to Madame 
Ferree, " Indian no harm white — white good to Indian — go 
to Beaver — our chief — come to Beaver." Few were the words 
of the Indian. They went with him to Beaver's cabin ; and 
Beaver, with the humanity that distinguished the Indian of 
that period, gave up to the immigrants his wigwam. Next 
day he introduced them to Tawana, who lived on the great 
flats of Pequea." 

Having thus briefly traced the early and progressive settle- 
ments of Pennsylvania, before entering upon the local history 
of the several counties, a succinct sketch of the first settlers, 
namely, German and Irish, will be given. 

• Some Swiss Mennonites had commenced a settlement shortly be- 
fore, six or eight miles below, on the same stream. — His. Lan. cc, 
p. 74. 



CHAPTER II. 

General character of Germans— First immif;rants and settlers — Ger.- 
mantown settled — Frankford land company — Immigrants of 1708 
and 1709 — Their sufferings in England— Dickinson's remarks con- 
cerning them— Settlements in Tulpehocken — Redemption servants — 
Numerous immigrants — Settlements on the west side of the Susque- 
hanna — iVeMiamf/cr deceive many — Great sufferings experienced by 
many — C. Sauers's representation of their condition — Society formed 
to relieve German sufferers — Muhlenberg's letter, &c. — Political in- 
fluence of the Germans— Number of Germans in Pennsylvania in 
1755 — Catholic Germans — Names of some of the first German set- 
tlers in Cumberland county, &c. 

The Germans of Pennsylvania ever, as a people, hardy, 
frugal, and industrious, who have preserved, in a great mea- 
sure, their manners and language, immigrated into this Pro- 
vince, for conscience sake, and to improve both their spiritual 
and temporal condition. Perhaps there is no people who were 
more frequently the subject of remark in the early history of 
Pennsylvania, and during the last century, than the Germans, 
whose numerous descendants are to be found not only in this 
State, but in nearly every western and southwestern State of 
the Union. 

Though more than twenty-five thousand names of German 
immigrants are recorded in the Provincial Records from, and 
after 1725, few of those are recorded, who arrived in Penn- 
sylvania prior to 1700.* Among the first whose name has 
been handed down, is that of Henry Fry, who arrived two 
years before William Penn; and one Platenbach, who came a 
few years later. 

In 1682 some Germans arrived, and commenced a settle- 
ment called Germantown ; among these were Pastorius, Harts- 
felder, Schietz, Spehagel, Vandewalle, Uberfeld, Strauss, 
Lorentz, Tellner, Strepers, Lipman, Renkes, Arets, Isaacs. 
About the year 1684 or '85 a company, consisting at first of 
ten persons, was formed in Germany, called the Frankford 

• Hallische Nachrichten, p. 664, 



ijrtRODuctios. 39 

Land Company, on the Mayne ; their articles "were executed 
in that city on the 24th of November^ 1686. They seem to 
have been men of note by the use of each, of his separate 
seal. Their names were G. Van Mastrick, Thomas V. Wy- 
lick, John Le Bran, F. Dan. Pastorius, John J. Schuetz, 
Daniel Behagel, Jacobus Van Dewaller, John W. Peterson, 
Johannes Kimber, Balthasur Jowest. They bought 25,000 
acres of land from Penn. The Germantown patent for 5350, 
and the Manatauney patent for 22,377 acres. F. D. Pasto- 
rious was appointed the attorney for the company, and after 
his resignation, Dan. Faulkner was, in 1708, made attorney. 

Those who left their Vaterland after 1700, endured many 
hardships on their way to their future, new home; some suf- 
fered much before, while others, after their arrival here. Pas-- 
sing over a period of twenty years, from 1680 to 1700, they 
suffered comparatively little more than was the common lot 
of all the colonists of that period; but from 1700 to 1720, 
the Palatines, so called, because they principally came from 
Palatinate, whither many had been forced to flee from their 
homes in other parts of Europe, endured many privations be- 
fore they reached the western continent. 

In 1708 and 1709 upwards of ten thousand, and many of 
them very poor^ arrived in England, and were there for some 
time in a starving, miserable, sickly condition, lodged in ware- 
houses; who had no subsistence but what they could get by 
their wives begging for them in the streets till some sort of 
provision was made for them by -Queen Anne ; and then some 
were shipped to Ireland, others to America. In the month 
of August, 1709, pursuant to an address to her Majesty, 
Queen Anne, from the Lord Lieutenant and Council in Ire- 
land, desiring as many as her Majesty should think fit to send 
thither, three thousand were sent to Ireland ; many of whom 
returned again to England, on account of the hard usage they 
received from the Commissary, who did not pay them their 
subsistence.* In the summer of 1710, several thousand Pal- 
atines, who had been maintained at the Queen's expense in 
England, and for some time afterwards in America, were 
shipped to New York; some of whom, afterwards, came to 
Pennsylvania. 

While investigating the history of the Germans, especially enquirinS" 
into the sufTerings of those who lived for some time upon the bounty of 

♦ Journal, House of Commons, England, vol. lyi. 594-98. 



40 



INTRODUCTION. 



Queen Anne, I find that the whole charge, occasioned by the Palaiines, 
to the Queen, for a space of two years, is £135,775 and 18 shillings. — 
Finch's Report to the House of Coaimons, England, April 14, 1711. 

Hundreds of those, transported and sustained for some time 
by Queen Anne, were gratuitously furnished with religious 
and useful books, before their departure, by the Rev. Anton 
VVilhelm Boehra, Court Chaplain of St. James. The princi- 
pal book was "Arndt's Wahres Christenthum." Among these 
German emigrants were Mennonites, Dunkards, German Re- 
formed, and Lutherans. Their number was so great, as to 
draw the remarks from James Logan, Secretary of the pro- 
vince of Pennsylvania, in 1717 — " We have," said he, " of 
late, a great number of Palatines poured in upon us without 
any recommendation or notice, which gives the country some 
uneasiness, for foreigners do not so well among us as our own 
English people." 

Those who arrived between 1700 and 1720, settled in the 
lower parts of Montgomery, Bucks, Berks and Lancaster 
county. Several German families settled within the present 
limits of the last named county, between 1708 and 1711 — 
the number was considerable before 1718. 

In 1719, Jonathan Dickinson remarks, "We are daily ex- 
pecting ships from London which bring over Palatines, in 
number about six or seven thousand. We had a parcel who 
came out about five years ago, who purchased land about 60 
miles west of Philadelphia, and prove quiet and industrious.* 
Some few came from Ireland lately, aud more are expected 
thence. 

From 1720 to 1730, several thousands landed at Philadel- 
phia, and others came by land from the province of New 
York; the latter settled in Tulpehocken. These left New 
York, because they had been illy treated by the authorities of 
that province. The influx was so great as to cause some 
alarm. It was feared by some " that the numbers from Ger- 
many, at the rate they were coming in about 1725 and 1727, 
will soon, as Jonathan Dickinson expressed himself at the 
time, produce a German colony here, and perhaps such an one 
as Britain once received from Saxony in the fifth century. 
He even states as among the apprehended schemes of Sir 
William Keith, (who, it is said, favored the Germans for pur- 

* Pequea settlement, Lancaster county, 



IKTRODUCTIOW. 41 

poses of strengthening his political influence) the former Go- 
vernor, that he, Harland and Gould, have had sinister pro- 
jects of forming an independent province in the west, to the 
westward of the Grermans, towards the Ohio — probably west 
of the mountains, and t J be supplied by his friends among the 
Palatines, &c."* To arrest in some degree the influx of Ger- 
mans, the Assembly assessed a tax of twenty shillings a head 
on newly arrived servants; for as early as 1722 there were a 
number of Palatine servants or Redemptioners, who were sold 
to serve for a term of three or four years, at £10 each, to pay 
their freight. 

English, Welsh, Scotch and Irish, who were onable to defray the ex- 
penses of crossing the Atlantic were sold as servants. In 1729 there 
arrived in New Castle government, says the Gazette, forty-five hundred 
persons, chiefly from Ireland ; and at Philadelphia, in one year, two 
hundred and sixty-seven English and Welsh, forty-three Scotch — all 
servants." 

In 1727 six vessels arrived at Philadelphia with Germans ; three m 
1728; three in 1729 and three in 1730. 

From 1730 to 1740 about sixty-five vessels, well filled 
with Germans, arrived at Philadelphia, bringing with them 
ministers of the gospel and schoolmasters, to instruct their 
children. A large number of these remained in Philadelphia, 
others went seventy to eighty miles from Philadelphia — some 
settled in the neighborhood of Lebanon, others west of the 
Susquehanna, in York county. 

Some of the Germans who had settled on the west side of the Sus- 
quehanna were considerably annoyed by one Crfissap, a Maryland in- 
trader. In J736^ Cressap publicly declared, that in the winter next 
coming, when the ice was on the river, a great number of armed men 
would come tip from Maryland, and be in the woods, near the German 
inhabitants, and that he, with ten armed men would go from house to 
bouse, and take the masters of the families prisoners, and when they 
bad as many as they could manage, they would carry them to the arm- 
ed forces in the woods, and return again till he had all taken who would 
nor submit to Maryland. Several of the Germans were subsequently 
abducted, others were constantly harassed ; in many instances driven 
from their farms. 

From 1740 to 1755 upwards of one hundred vessels ar- 
rived with Germans; in some of them, though small, there 
were between five and six hundred passengers. In the sum» 

• Watson's Annals, ii. 255. 

4* 



42 INTRODUCTION. 

raer and autumn of 1749, not less than twenty vessels, with 
German passengers, to the number of twelve thousand, ar- 
rived. 

Omitting the names of the vessels, the arrivals are given from Au- 
gust 24th 1749, to November 9, Aug. 24th, 240 passengers ; Aug. 30th, 
500; Sept. 2(1, 340; 9lh 400 ; 11th 299; 14th 333 ; 15th 930 ; 19th 372 ; 
25th 240 ; 26th 840 ; 27th 206 ; 28th 242 ; Oct. 2d 249 ; 7th 450 ; 10th 
350; 17th 480; Nov. 9th 77. 

Thousands of those who immigrated to Pennsylvania be- 
tween 1740 and 1755, lamented bitterly that they had forsa- 
ken their Vaterland, for the new world. It was a sad ex- 
change ! There was within this period a certain class of 
Germans, who had resided some time in Pennsylvania, well 
known by the name of JYeulaender, who lived at the expense, 
pains and sufferings of the more credulous abroad. They 
made it their business to go to Germany, and there, by mis- 
represeutations and the grossest fraudulent practices, prevailed 
on their countrymen to dispose of, nay, in many instances to 
sacrifice their property, abandon their comfortable firesides, 
schools and churches, and come to the JYew World, which 
these JYeulaender never failed to represent as a perfect para- 
dise, where the mountains were solid masses of gold, and 
fountains gushed milk and honey. Thus they did not only 
prevail upon persons of wealth, but upon those in moderate 
circumstances; and those generally ran short of means after 
paying their debts before leaving, " to come over" to better 
their condition ; in four instances out of five, their condition 
was rendered none the better, but made infinitely worse; for 
those who had not wherewith to pay their passage — and of 
this class there were not a few — were, on their ariival, sold 
for a series of years, as servants, to pay the expense of their 
passage. Those disposed of, were termed Redemptioners, or 
Palatine servants. 

Christopher Sauers, of Germantown, who for many years 
printed a German paper, in which he spoke freely of the re- 
ligious and civil liberty, and prosperity of the province of 
Pennsylvania ; and, as he believed, many Germans had been 
thereby induced to come over; but seeing their miserable 
condition, felt constrained to address Gov. Denny to use his 
influence in their behalf. In a letter, dated Germantown, 
March 15, 1755, says, "It is thirty years since I came to 



INTRODUCTION. 43 

this Province, from a country where we had no liberty of 
conscience — when I came to this Province, I wrote largely 
to ray friends and acquaintances of the civil and religious li- 
berty, privileges, &c. ; my letters were printed and reprinted, 
whereby thousands were provoked to come to this Province, 
and they desired their friends to come. Some years ago the 
price was five pistoles freight, and the merchants and cap- 
tains crowded for passengers, finding the carrying of them 
more profitable than merchandise. But the love of gain caus- 
ed that Stedman lodged the poor passengers like herrings, 
and as too many had not room between the decks, many were 
kept upon deck — sailing to the southward, and these unac- 
customed to the climate; and for want of water and room, 
took sick and died very fast, so that in less than one year two 
thousand were buried in the seas and Philadelphia. Stedman, 
at that time, bought a Hcense in Holland, that no captain or 
merchant could load any as long as he had not two thousand. 
This murdering trade made my heart ache, especially when I 
heard that there was more profit by their deaths than carry- 
ing them alive. I thought my provoking letters were partly 
the cause of so many deaths. I wrote a letter to the Magis- 
trate at Amsterdam, and immediately the monopoly was taken 
from John Stedman. Our Legislature was also petitioned, 
and a law was passed, and good as it is, never was executed. 
Mr. Spatfort, an old, poor captain, was made overseer of the 
vessels loaded with passengers, whose salary amounted to 
S2,300 a year, for concealing that the people had but twelve 
inches space, and not half bread nor water. Spaffort died — 
the Assembly chose Mr. Trotter, who let every ship slip, 
although a great many people had no room at all, except in 
the Long JBoat, where every man perished. Among other 
grievances the poor Germans suffer, is one, viz : that when 
the ignorant Germans agree fairly witJi merchants at Holland 
for seven pistoles and a half, when they come to Philadel- 
phia, the merchants make them pay whatever they please, 
and take at least nine pistoles. The poor people on board 
are prisoners ; they must not go ashore or have their chests 
delivered except they pay what they owe not ; and when they 
go into the country, they complain loudly there, that no jus- 
tice is to be had for poor strangers — they show their agree- 
ments in which it is fairly mentioned, that they are to pay 
seven pistoles and a half to Isaac and Zachary Hope at Rot- 



44 INXaODUCTION. 

terdam, or their order at Philadelphia, &c. — and as this is 
much practiced, the country is wronged £2000 or £3000 a 
year. It was much desired that a law might be passed that 
a Commissioner might be appointed to inspect, on the arrival 
of vessels with passengers, their agreements, and judge if 7i 
pistoles makes not seven and a half. Some asked, "Is there 
no remedy?" They were answered, " The law is, what is 
above forty shillings must be decided at Court; and each must 
make his own cause appear good and stand a trial. A poor 
comfort indeed ! Two or three thousand wronged persons to 
depend upon the discretion of the merchants. They are anx- 
ious to come on shore to satisfy hunger — they pay what is 
demanded — some are sighing, some cursing; some believe 
their case differs little from such as fall into the hands of a 
highwayman, who presents a pistol and demands according 
to his own terms. They also complain that the captains of- 
ten hurry them away without any agreement, or the agree- 
ment is not signed ; or, if a fair agreement is written, signed 
and sealed, it will not be performed, and they must pay what- 
ever is demanded. And when their chests are put into stores, 
and by the time they have procured money from their friends 
to pay for what they agreed, and more too, and demand their 
chests, they find them opened and plundered of their contents ; 
or sometimes the chests are not to be found for which they 
had paid." 

In another letter to the Governor, dated Germantown, 
May 12, 1755, C. Sauers says, "The merchants and impor- 
ters filled the vessels with passengers, and as much merchan- 
dise as they thought fit, and left the passengers' chests behind 
— sometimes the loaded vessels with the Palatine's chests 
only. The poor people depended upon their chests, in which 
they had some provisions, such as they were used to, viz : 
dried apples, pears, plums, mustard, medicines, vinegar, bran- 
dy, gammons, butter, also clothing, such as shirts and other 
Hecessary linens, and some of them had money and what they 
brought with them, and when their chests were left behind, 
or shipped in other vessels, they suffered for want of food — 
and when there was not a sufficiency of provision laid in for 
passengers, they famished and died — when they arrived alive, 
they had no money to buy bread, or anything to sell of their 
spare clothes — neither had they clothes so as to change linens, 
&,c., they were not able to keep themselves clean, and free ot 
Terrain. 



INTRODUCTION. 45 

If they were taken into houses, and trusting on their ef- 
fects and money, when they come, these effects and moneys 
were either left behind, or their chests were either plundered 
by the sailors on the vessels, or if the vessels arrived before 
the sailors broke open the chests, they were searched by the 
merchants' boys, and their best effects, all taken — and there 
was no remedy for all this. And this last mentioned practice, 
that their chests were broken open and effects stolen, has not 
only been common these 25, 20, 10, 5 years, but it is a com- 
mon custom, and the complaints are daily. 

If I was ordered to print advertisements, at the request of 
those who lost their chests by leaving them behind them 
against their will, or were opened and plundered at sea when 
they were sent after them, in other vessels, or were broken 
open and plundered in the stores at Philadelphia. If these 
chests had been sold at half their value, it would amount to a 
large sura.— Your Honor would be astonished to hear the 
complaints of more than 2000 to 3000 people." 

The writer's paternal grandfather, Jonas Rupp, a native of Sinsheim, 
was among the number of those who were robbed: his chest broken 
open, all his effects stolen, and himself on his arrival, friendless and 
pennyless, sold as a Redemption servant, for two years and six months 
to one Leonard Umberger, near Lebanon. Jonas Rupp arrived in the 
ship Phoenix, commanded by Captain Spurrier, September 25,1751. 
Out of four hundred and twelve who embarked in the same vessel, only 
one hundred and eighty survived to land at Philadelphia; and of these 
many died soon after their arrival. 

The Rev. Muhlenburg says, speaking of Redemptioners: 
Denn wen die Teutschen von den Schiffen hier an kommen 
so mussen diegenigen, welche die Fracht nicht aus ihren eig- 
enen Mitteln bezahlen koennen, sich mit ihren Faniclien 
gleichsam verkaufen, da sic denn so lange dienen muessen bis 
sic ihre Fracht obverdient haben; solche werden servants 
oder Knechte genannt. Wenn denn dieselbe ihre Fracht be- 
zahlt und noch et was verdient haben, so Ziehen sic nach und 
nach ins Landhinauf, und kaufen was eigenes — Hallische 
JVachrichten, p. 54. See Jjppendix A. JYeulaender. 

On another occasion he says : 

Weil viele von den nach Pensylvanien eilenden Teutschen 
ihre Fracht zu bozahlen nicht im stande sind, so werden sic, 
zu deren Vergutung, auf einige Jahre an die reichsten Ein- 
wohner als leibeigem knecht verkauft. Es koinen solcher 



46 INTRODUCTION. 

zur Verlassung ihres Vaterlandes verfuhrten, und dadurch 
ofters in leibliches ud geistliches Elered gesturtzten Teuts- 
chen Leute von zeit zu zeit noch immur sehr viele in Penn- 
s}lvamen an Im Herbst 1749 sind 25 schiffe voll Teutschen 
neuen Cohnister nach und nach vor Philadelphia eingelaufen 
und ausser donen, du der Tod unterwegs aufgerieben, haben 
sich dorauf 7049 Personen befunden. Es ist leicht zu er 
achten, da dir Begierd, das Vaterland nait der neuen Welt zu 
verwechsehn, schor so viele Jahre her unter denen niemals 
weniger, als mit den gegenwartigen Unstanden, vergnugten 
Teutschen herschet, das Land bereits uberflussy mit Leuten 
besetzt Ley. Und so ists. Es wunelt von Leuten, so dass 
auch du Lebers ollitter imes theueren werder. Eben duses 
aber ist Ursach, warun du nein rus Land komerde, nicht so 
veile Vortheib geneisen koner, als die ersten genossen haben. 

To alleviate the sufferings of these strangers, a society was 
formed among the more wealthy and benevolent ; but their 
means were not adequate to the wants of " suffering thous- 
ands." 

Their sufferings were confined to the period mentioned, as 
may be seen irora the following letter from Dr. Muehleng- 
berg — 

" Januar 7ten, 1768. 

" Im Vergangenen Spaetjahr, sind wieder funf bis sechs 
schiffe voll rait Teutschen Emigranten vor Philadelphia ange- 
kommen, davon noch ein grosser Theil auf dem Wasser lieg- 
en, weil nicht allein ihre Frachten sehr hoch gestiegen, son- 
dern auch ein allgemeiner Geldmangel vorwaltet, so dass sic 
nicht wie in vorigen Zeiten, verkauft werden konnen, und, so 
zersagen, in ihrem Ebend umkomen muessen. Die die mit 
solchem Menschenhandel interessirte Herren wollen das Geld 
fuer ihre Frachthaben. Wenn aber keine Kaeuter sind, so 
behalten sic ihre Waare, und lassen sic lieber verderben, als 
dass sic solche vershenken solten. Es ist ein grosser Jammer, 
wenn man seine arme betrogene Mitge schoepfe so im Elend 
sichet, und nicht helfen kann." p. 816. 

) The Palatine Redemption servants were sold for, from two 
to five years. Many of them often serving out their time 
faithfully, became, by frugality and industry, some of the most 
wealthy and influential citizens of the State, 



INTRODUCTION. 47 

"In later times, say about the year 1753 to 1756, the Ger- 
mans having become numerous, and therefore powerful as 
make-weights in the political balance, were much noticed in 
the publications of the day. They were at that period of 
time, in general, very hearty co-operators with the Quakers 
or Friends, then in considerable rule in the Assembly. A 
MSS. pamphlet in the Franklin Library at Philadelphia, sup- 
posed to have been written by Samuel Wharton, in 1755, 
shows his ideas of the passing events, saying, that the party 
on the side of the Friends derived much of their influence 
over the Germans, through the aid of C. Sauers, who pub- 
lished a German paper in Germantown, from the time of 1729, 
and which, being much read by that people, influenced them 
to the side of the Friends, and hostile to the Governor and 
council. Through this means, says he, they have persuaded 
them that there was a design to enslave them ; to enforce 
their young men, by a contemplated militia law, to become 
soldiers, and to load them down with taxes, &c. From such 
causes, he adds, have they come down in shoals to vote, (of 
course, many from Northampton,) and carrying all before 
them. To this I may, says Watson, add, that I have heard 
from the Norris family, that their ancestors in the Assembly 
were warmly patronized by the Germans in union with Friends. 
His alarms at this German influence at the polls, and his pro- 
posed remedies for the then dreaded evils, as they show the 
prevalent feelings of his associates in politics, may serve to 
amuse the present generation. He says the best eflfects of 
these successes of the Germans will probably be felt through 
many generations ! Instead of a peaceable, industrious peo- 
ple, as before, they are now insolent, sullen, and turbulent ; 
in some counties threatening even the lives of all those who 
opposed their views, because they are taught to regard gov- 
ernment and slavery as one and the same thing. All who 
are not of their party, they call " Governor's men," and them- 
selves, they deem strong enough to make the country their 
own ! Indeed, they come in, in such force, say upwards of 
5000 in the last year, I see not but they may soon be able 
to give us law and language too, or else, by joining the French, 
eject all the English. That this may be the case, is too much 
to be feared, for almost to a man they refused to bear arms 
in the time of the late war, and they say, it is all one to them 
which king gets the country, as their estates will be equally 



48 INTRODUCTION. 

secure. Indeed it is clear that the French have turned their 
hopes upon this great body of Germans. They hope to al- 
lure them by grants of Ohio lands. To this end, they send 
their Jesuitical emissaries among them over to persuade them 
over to the Popish religion. In concert with this, the French 
for so many years have encroached on our province, and are 
now so near their scheme as to be within two days' march of 
some of our black settlements" — alluding, of course to the 
state of the western wilds, overrun by French and Indians, 
just before the arrival of Braddock's forces in Virginia, in 
1755. 

" The writer (Wharton) imputes their wrong bias in gene- 
ral to their " stubborn genius and ignorance," which he pro- 
poses to soften by education — a scheme still suggested as ne- 
cessary to give the general mass of the inland country Ger- 
mans right views of public individual interests. To this end, 
he proposes that fdithful Protestant ministers and schoolmas- 
ters should be supported among them. That their children 
should be taught the English tongue ; the government in the 
mean time should suspend their right of voting for members 
of Assembly ; and to incline them the sooner to become En- 
glish in education and feeling, we should compel them to 
make all bonds and other legal writings in English, and no 
newspaper or almanack be circulated among them, also ac- 
companied by the English thereof. 

Finally, the writer concludes, that " without some such 
measure, I see nothing to prevent this Province falling into 
the hands of the French."* A scheme to educate the Ger- 
mans, as alluded to, was started in 1755 and carried on for 
several years.f 

The number of Germans about the year 1755, was not 
short of sixty or seventy thousand in Pennsylvania ; nearly 
all of them Protestants ; whereof, according to the Rev. 
Schlotter's statement, at the time, there were thirty thou- 
sand German Reformed — the Lutherans were more numerous. 
Besides these, there were other Germans, viz : Mennonites, 
German Baptists, (Dunkards,) Moravians, some few German 
Quakers, Seventh-day Baptists,Catholics, and Schwenkfiklers. 

" Herr Schlatter rechnet die Anzahl der Reforiiirten Teutschec in 

• Watson's Annals, ii, 257. 

f See Jjrpendix, B.— Scheme to educate the Gergans. 



INTRODUCTION. 49 

Pensylvanien auf 30,000 — Herr Schlatter Reformirten glaubt, dass die 
Reformirten nur den driiten Theil der Teutschen ia Pensylvanien 
ausmachen. — Hal. Nach. 512. 

The number of German Catholics did not exceed (1755) 7 hundred. 
In the autumn of 1754, one hundred and fifty-eight Catholics arrived 
at Philadelphia. 

The number of Catholics in 1757, beginning from twelve years of 
age, including German, English and Irish, about fourteen hundred, 
according to a statement by Mr. Warden, April 29, 1757. There were 
then in and about Philadelphia and in Chester county, under the care 
of the Rev. Robert Harding, 90 males and 100 females, all Irish and 
English. In Philadelphia city and county, Berks and Northampton, 
under the care of Theodore Schneider, 252 males and 248 females, all 
Germans ; in Berks and Chester, 92, whereof 15 were Irish. In Lan- 
caster, Berks, Chester and Cumberland, under the care of Ferdinand 
Farmer, 394, whereof 97 were Irish. In York county, under the care 
of Mathias Manners, 54 German males, 62 females ; 35 Irish males, 
and 38 females. — Prov. Rec. 

About nine-tenths of the first settlers of York, then includ- 
ing Adams county, were Germans, and some small proportion 
of Cumberland now within the limits of Franklin, was origi- 
nally settled by them, and some part of Dauphin (then Lan- 
caster.) Cumberland was exclusively settled by Scotch, and 
Scotch Irish, with the exception of a iew English.* The 
Germans did not begin to immigrate into the lower part of 
Cumberland till abount 1760 or '62. The great influx into 
Cumberland commenced about 1770. In the lower part of 
the county, were among the early German settlers, John Ger- 
man, Henry Longsdorff, John Leininger, Michael Bore, 
Michael Kunkle, Andrew Capp, Michael Dill, Michael Hack, 
Conrad Manasmith, Baltzer Schneider, Mathias Saylor, Chris- 
topher Wittmayer, Casper Weber, Simion Krauss, Elias Era- 
minger, Leonard Fischer, Martin Herrman, Philip Jacobs, 
Christopher Mayer, Jonas Rupp, George Rupley, Casper 
Reider, John Scherer, John Wormley, Christopher Eichel- 
berger, W. Buchhalter, Christian Fuchs, Jacob Herschberger, 
Simon Pretz, Henry Umberger, Adam Arris, Adam Kreutzer, 
Daniel Franks, Jacob Othenwalt, Joseph Bauraann, Dewalt 
Erfurth, Jacob Forney, Henry Herschberger, Henry Hum- 
barger, Philip Lang, Jacob Lebenstein, and some others who 
had all settled before 1775, in East Penn township. 

The following are among Germans who had settled in Al- 
len township before 1775, viz : Adam Kuhn, Christian 

• See Article, " The Irish." 

5 



50 INTRODUCTION. 

Schwartz, Carolus Emhoff, Peter Albert, John Knauer, Chris- 
tian Bollinger, Joseph Strack, Heinrich Tustus Weber, Mi" 
chael Weiss, Jacob Weiss, George Wingler, Henry Yordee, 
John Schaever, Henry Tom, Jacob Yordee, Ludwig Brauii, 
John Gerber, John Grieger, Abraham Heid, Jacob Knob, 
-Jacob Miller, Samuel Neisly, Adam Barnhart, Ludwig Brandt, 
John Bielman, John Cocklin, Jacob Cocklin, Leonard Wolf, 
Samuel Baer, John Brindel, Martin Brandt, Jacob Bricker," 
Jacob Kreiser, Gideon Kober, Jacob Frey, Peter Herr, John 
Riehm.* 

In the Conogocheague settlements, there were several Ger- 
man settlers at a very early period, about 1736-'4o, among 
these were the Snivelys, Schneiders, Piscackers, Liepers, 
Ledermans, Haricks, Laws, Kolps, Gabriels, Ringers, Stei- 
ners, Senseny, Radebach, Reischer, Wolffs, Schniedt. 

Within, or on the borders of the present limits of Dauphin 
county, were some German families settled prior to 1745 ; 
these were, Gabriel, Schultz, Musser or Moser, Rosebaum, 
Ricker, Boor,Schwar, Lichty, Roth, Schitz, Hailman, Brecht- 
bill, Sies, and others. 

• See History of Cumberland county, chapter xxiv. 



CHAPTER III. 



THE IRISH OR SCOTCH IRISH.'' 



lime of their first immigration— Settle first near the boundary line be- 
tween Maryland and Pennsylvania— James Logan's statement con. 
cerning them— First settlers in Donegal— In Peshtank— Richard Pe- 
ters' complains of them— They oppose a survey in Adams county- 
Settle west of the Susquehanna, in Cumberland county—Disagree- 
ment between the Irish and Germans, at Lancaster and York— Im- 
migration of, to Cumberland county encouraged— Lord's prayer in 

•: Irish. 

According to Mr. Watson's statement, Irish immigrants did 
not begin to come to Pennsylvania as soon as the Germans. 
It appears few, if any, arrived in the Province, prior to 17 19. 
Those that did then arrive, came principally from the north 
of Ireland. 

Irish or Scotch Irish. This term is used to designate a numerous and 
honorable people, who immigrated to the Province of Pennsylvania at 
an early date. Whence this term is derived, the following historical 
notice, will serve to explain. During the reign of Charles I., in the 
year 1641, October 27, the massacre of the Irish Protestants occurred, 
in IrelanJ, where, in a few days, fifty thousand were inhumanly, with- 
out regard to sex. age or quality, butchered ; and many fled to the North 
of Scotland, from which country the North of Ireland had been colo- 
nized by Protestants. 

An act was passed by Parliament, (the act of uniformity) 1662, re- 
quiring all ministers and churches rigidly to conform to the rites of 
the established church, which occasion two thousand ministers (called 
JNon-conformists) to dissent and abandon their pulpits. This act 
affected Scotland with equal severity. In 1691, the Toleration act was 
passed, under which the dissenters enjoyed greater privileges ; but, in 
the reign of Queen Ann, (1704—1714) the Schism Bill, which had 
actually obtained the royal assent, alarmed the dissenters much— the 
provisions of that bill were, Ihat dissenters were not to be suflTered to 
educate their own children, but required them to be put into the hands 
ot Conformists, and which forbade all tutors and school masters being 
present at any conventicle or disserting plan of worship. 

These difficulties and the unsettled state of affairs in Europe drove 
many of the more quiet citizens from their native home, and of this 
number were those, and descendants of those who had fled from the 
north of Ireland to Scotland, as well as gmuim Scotch, 



52 INTRODUCTION. 

Such as came first, generally settled near or about the dis- 
puted line between Maryland and Pennsylvania, if we ex- 
cept those who settled in Donegal township, Lancaster county, 
and those of Craig^s, and Martin's settlements in North- 
ampton county. 

James Logan, writing of them to the Proprietaries, in 
1724, says, they have generally taken up the southern lands, 
(meaning in Lancaster, towards the Maryland line,) and as 
they rarely approached him to propose to purchase, he calls 
them bold and indigent strangers, saying as their excuse, 
when challenged lor titles, that we had solicited for colonists, 
and they had come accordingly. They were, however, un- 
derstood to be a tolerated class, exempt from rents by an or- 
dinance of 1720, in consideration of their being a frontier 
people, forming a kind of cordon of defence, if needful. — 
They were soon called bad neighbors by the Indians, treat- 
ing them disdainfully, and finally were the same race who 
committed the outrages called Paxtang Massacre. The gen- 
eral ideas are found in the Logan MSS. collection. Some of 
the data are as follows : 

"In 1725, James Logan states, that there are so many as 
one hundred thousand acres of land, possessed by persons, 
(including Germans,) who resolutely set down and improved 
it without any right to it, and he is much at a loss to deter- 
mine how to dispossess them. 

In New Castle government there arrived last year (1728) 
says the Gazette (of 1729) forty-five hundred persons, chie- 
fly from Ireland. 

" In 1729, Logan expresses himself glad to find that the 
Parliament is about to take measures to prevent the too free 
emigration to this country. In the meantime the Assembly 
had laid a restraining tax of twenty shillings a head for eve- 
ry servant arriving ; but even this was evaded in the case of 
the arrival of a ship from Dublin, with one hundred catholics 
and convicts, by landing them at Burlington. It looks, says 
he, as if Ireland is to send all her inhabitants hither, for last 
week, not less than six ships arrived, and every day two or 
three arrive also. The common fear is, that if they continue 
to come, they will make themselves proprietors of the pro- 
vince. It is strange, says he, that they thus crowd where 
they are not wanted. But besides these, convicts are impor- 



INTRODUCTION. 53 

ted hither.* The Indians themselves are alarmed at the 
swarms of strangers, and we are afraid of a breach between 
them — for the Irish are very rough to them." 

" In 1730, he writes and complains of the Scotch Irish, in 
an audacious and disorderly manner, possessing themselves of 
the whole of Conestoga manor, of fifteen thousand acres, be- 
ing the best land in the country. In doing this by force, they 
alleged that it was against the laws of God and nature, tha't 
so much land should be idle, while so many Christians want- 
ed it to labor on, and to raise their bread, &c. The Paxtang 
boys were great sticklers for religion and scripture quotations 
against "the heathen." They were, however, dispossessed 
by the Sheriff and his posse, and their cabins, to the number 
of thirty, were burnt. This necessary violence was, perhaps, 
remembered with indignation; for only twenty-five years af- 
terwaids, the Paxtang massacre began by killing the Chris- 
tian unoffending Indians found in Conestoga. The Irish w^ere 
generally settled at Donegal." 

Among the firsS settlers in Donegal wer€ the Semples, Patterson':, 
.Scotts, Mitchells, Hendricks, Speers, Gaibreaths, Andersons, Lowreys' 
Pedans, Porters, Sterrit^s Kerrs, Works, Litles, Whitehills, Campbells,' 
Moors, Smiths, M'Ewens, Ramijaxs.Gilstons, Colters, M'lntyres, Cooks' 
Howards, Clarks M'Clellans, Clennings. Brackans, Wilsons, Allisons! 
Halls, Stuarts, Trintons, Hughs, Lynns, Browns, Collins, Andrews, Fosi 
ters, Banes, M'Coskeys, Carithers, Ramages, Marchets, Pattons, Potts 
Reas, Fullons, M'ColIocks, Brus, Kellys, Walkers, many of whom had 
settled here prior to, or soon after the organization of Donegal town- 
ship, which was in 1722. 

From Donegal, the settlements by the Irish and Scotch were extended 
into Paxton, Derry, Londonderry and Hanover townships, Lancaster 
county, (now Dauphin, and part of Lebanon) Paxton (Peshtank) and 
Derry townrhips were organized prior to 1730. See Dauphin county. 

Mr. Logan, says Watson, writes in another letter, "I must 
own, from my own experience in the Land Office, that the 
settlement of five families from Ireland gives me more trouble 
than fifty of any other people. Before we were broke m 
upon, ancient Friends and first settlers lived happily, but now 
the case is quite altered, by strangers and debauched morals, 
&c. All this seems like hard measure dealt upon those spe- 
cimens of " the land of generous natures," but we may be 

• Augustus Gun, of Cork, advertised in the Philadelphia papers that 
ha had power from the mayor of Cork, for many years, to procure ser- 
vants for America — 1741. 

5* 



54 INTRODUCTION. 

excused for letting him speak out, who was himself from the 
"Emerald Isle," where he had of course seen a better race.* 

" Logan's successor, Richard Peters, Esq., as Secretary to 
the Proprietaries, falls into asimilardissatisfaction with them; 
for in his letter to' the proprietaries, of 1743, he says, he went 
to Marsh creek (Adams county, — then Lancaster) to warn 
off and dispossess the squatters, and to measure the Manor 
land. 

" On that occasion, the people there, to about the number 
of seventy, assembled and forbade them to proceed, and on 
their persisting, broke the chain and compelled them to retire. 
He had with him a sheriff and a magistrate. They were af- 
terwards indicted — became subdued, and made their engage- 
ment for leases. In most cases the leases were so easy, that 
they were enabled to buy the lands ere they expired." 

The breaking of the surveyor's chain happened on the 17th 
of June, 1743. The principal settlers on Marsh creek at 
that time, were William McLelan, Jos. Farris, Hugh McCain, 
Matthew Black, James McMichell, Robert McFarson, Wil- 
liam Black, James Agnew, (cooper) Henry McDonath, John 
Alexander, Moses Jenkins, Richard Hall, Richard Fossett, 
Adam Hall, John Eddy, John Eddy, jr., Edward Hall, Wil- 
liam Eddy, James Wilson, James Agnew, John Steene, John 
Johnson, John Hamilton, HughVogan, Hugh Swainey, John 
McWharter, Titus Dai ley, Thomas Hosswick. 

Settlements were commenced in Cumberland, (then Lan- 
caster) by the descendants of Irish and Scotch immigrants, 
and some recently from the Emerald Isle, and Highlands of 
Scotia, and some few English, about 1730 and 'Sl.f After 
1736, when Pennsborough and Hopewell townships had been 
erected, the influx of emigrants from Europe, and from Lan- 
caster county, into Kittochtinny valley, west of the Susque- 
hanna, increased rapidly ; for in 1748, the number ot taxa- 
bles in this valley (Cumberland and Franklin counties) was 
about eight hundred ; of whom there were not fifty Germans 
— those few were in the Conocheague settlement. 

Shortly after Cumberland county had been erected (1750) 
the proprietaries, "in consequence of the frequent disturban- 

• Watson's Annals, ii. 109, 

f Benjamin, Robert and James Chambers commenced settlements 
west of the Susquehanna, about or before 1730. See Article, Cham- 
bersburg, infra. 



INTRODUCTION. 55 

ces between the governor and Irish settlers, gave orders to 
their agents to sell no lands in either York and Lancaster 
counties to the Irish ; and also to make advantageous offers 
of removal to the Irish settlers (as the mingling ol the two 
nations in Lancaster and York had produced serious riots at 
elections) in Paxton and Swatara,and Donegal townships, to 
remove to Cumberlaifd county, which offers bemg liberal were 
accepted by many. 

As early as 1732, there was a violent contest between An- 
drew Galbraith and John Wright, both candidates for the 
Assembly. Wright was an English Quaker, Galbraith an 
Irishman ; but in 1743, the Irish strove more effectually lor 
ascendancy at the polls. This year an election was held to 
supply the vacancy occasioned by the death of Thomas Lin- 
sey. The Irish compelled the sheriff to receive such tickets 
as they approved, and make a return accordingly.* 

The matter was afterwards investigated, and the following 
resolutions were adopted by the Assembly — 

Resolved, That the sheriff having assumed upon himself 
the power of being sole judge at the late election, exclusive 
of the inspectors chosen by the farmers of the said county of 
Lancaster, is illegal, unwarrantable and an infringement of 
the liberties of the people of the Province ; that it gave just 
cause for discontentment to the inhabitants of said county : 
that if any disturbances followed thereupon, it is justly im- 
puted to his own misconduct. 

Resolved, That the sheriff of Lancaster county be admon- 
ished by the speaker. The sheriff attended, and being ad- 
monished, promised he would take care and keep the law in 
future. He also altered the return, as Samuel Blunston was 
entitled to take his seat."t 

In 1749, an election was held at York. There were two 
prominent candidates for sheriff, Hans Hamilton, from Marsh 
creek, (Adams county) the Irish candidate; Richard M'Al- 
lister, the favorite of the Dutch. The Germans, as they are 
wont, without much ado, worked well for their candidate, 
evidently gaining on their competitors; this vexed the ireful 
friends of Hamilton. Two or three stout, blustering Hiber- 
nians — boxers, as they were called — took possession of the 

• History of Lancaster county, p. 288. 
I Votes of Assembly. 



56 INTRODUCTION. 

place "where to poll;" determined that none but their candi- 
dates' friends should vote. A stout German, equally deter- 
mined to enjoy what he considered his rights, without yield- 
ing any the least, stepped up to vote — tripped up the heels of 
oiie of the swaggering Irishmen, which eventuated in an af- 
fray. The standing saplings, near at hand, were soon torn 
down, and sticks cut which were used as defensive and offen- 
sive weapons. Blows were promiscuously dealt out — the Irish 
were routed — driven beyond Codorus creek; and at the risk 
of bloody heads, dared not to appear, all day, east of the Co- 
dorus. The Germans voted, and elected M'Allister, by an 
overwhelming majority. But, in this instance, Gov. James 
Hamilton disregarded the expressed will of the majority of 
voters, commissioned Hans Hamilton for one year. Illy con- 
sidered policy, as the sequel proved. 

At the second election held at York, Oct. 1750, for repre- 
sentatives, a large party of Germans drove the Irish from the 
polls. It was set forth in a petition to the Assembly touch- 
ing this affray that, Hans Hamilton did not open the election 
till two o'clock in the afternoon, which caused not a little 
uneasiness among the people. That the Marsh creek people, 
gathered about the election house to give in their tickets and 
would not suffer the Dutch people and others to come near 
the house, but did all they could to keep them off with clubs, 
so that the Germans were obliged to do the best they could, 
or else go home without voting ; and being the most in 
number they drove the people from the house, and when 
they had done so, they came in a peaceable manner to give 
in their votes ; but when the sheriff saw his party was 
mastered, he locked up the box, and would not suffer the 
inspectors to take away more tickets, which made the Dutch 
people angry, and they strove to break into the house — an<i 
then the sober people desired the sheriff to continue the 
election; but he would not, and went away out of the 
back window, several of the inspectors going with him — and 
then the freeholders desired the coroner to carry on the elec- 
tion — which having done carefully and justly; and, after- 
wards, the sheriff was asked to come and see the votes read, 
and an account taken of them, but he refused, &c. 

The whole matter was investigated — the shei iff was called 



INTRODUCTION. 57 

before the Assembly, publicly admonished by the speaker, and 
advised to preserve better order in future.* 

Though the Germans occupy the greater portion of the 
farms, first settled by the Irish, in Dauphin and Cumberland 
counties, there are still a respectable number of the descen- 
dants of this generous and hospitable people, occupying the 
homesteads of their ancestors. Unlike the German, the des- 
cendants of the Irish, no longer speak the language of their 
valorous fathers. 

The following is the Lord's prayer in Irish, copied from 
Gr. Daniel's edition of an Irish Bible, printed 1602: 

Air nathir ataigh air nin. Nabz fat hanimti. Tighuh da 
riathiate. Deantur da hoilamhuoil Air nimh agis air thal- 
ambi. Air naran laidthnil tabhair dhuin a niomb. Agis 
math duin dairf hiacha ammnil. Agis mathum vid dar feu- 
thunuim. Agis na trilaie astoch sin anau sen. Ac sar sina 
ole. — Amen. 



CHAPTER IV. 

INDIAN MASSACRES, (1727 and 1744.) 

Thomas Wright killed near Snaketown, 1727— Davenport's testimony 
—John Armstrong, James Smith and Woodward Arnold killed by 
Musemeelin in 1744 — Alexander Armstrong's letter to Aljumoppies — 
Search made for the bodies of the deceased ; found and buried them — 
Provincial council held — Conrad Weiser makes a demand for the 
murderer at Shamokin — Weiser's transactions, «fec., at Shamokin — 
Shickcalemy's statement touching the murder of Armstrong. 

The principal, of the numerous murders committed by the 
Indians upon the whites, within the limits then embraced by 
the upper part of Lancaster county, and of Cumberland, 
forms the subject of several chapters of this part of this 
compilation. 

As settlements became somewhat extended, the white 

* Votes of Assembly, iv. 152, 153. 



58 INTRODUCTION. 

people, especially Indian traders came in closer contact with 
the Indians ; and despite of the efforts of the government 
serious conflicts ensued, and, in some instances, blood was 
shed. This was, however, owing as much to the imprudence 
of the whites as to the temerity of the Indians. Sometime 
in 1727, a person named Thomas Wright was killed by some 
Indians, at Snaketown, forty miles above Conestoga. 

John Wright, Esq., of Chester, (now Lancaster county, 
Columbia) addressed a letter, carried by Jonas Davenport, 
to Secretary Logan, at Philadelphia, which was laid before 
the Council, September 27, 1727. It was set forth in the 
letter, that on the 11th of September, several Indians, to- 
gether with one John Burt, an Indian trader, and Thomas 
Wright, were drinking near the house of Burt, who was 
singing and dancing with the Indians, and the said Wright. — 
Burt bade Wright knock down the Indian ; whereupon 
Wright laid hold upon the Indian, but did not beat him ; — 
that afterward Burt struck the Indian several blows with the 
fist ; after which both Wright and Burt returned into the 
house, whither the Indians followed them, and broke open 
the door — that while Wright was endeavoring to pacify them 
Burt called out for his gun, and continued to provoke them 
more and more ; that thereupon Wright fled to the hen-house 
to hide himself, whither the Indians pursued him — and next 
morning he was found dead. 

In the report of inquest, it is set forth that the said Wright 
came to his death by several blows on the head, neck, and 
temples ; which the jurors said they believed, was done by 
the Indians. 

From the testimony of Jonas Davenport, before the Coun- 
cil, it appears that this quarrel, which ended in the death of 
Wright, arose from the too free use of rum, sold by Burt. — 
Davenport said, " That he was informed, by credible people 
living near the place, where the murder was committed, that 
John Burt sent for rum for the Indians, which they drank, 
and that he afterwards sent for some more, that a dispute 
arising between Burt and the Indians, the said Burt filled his 
hands with his own excrement and threw it among the In- 
dians. This filthy act — some rumsellers are filthy dealers — 
provoked the Indians to a great degree. They were of the 
Munsooes Indians, who then Uved on an eastern branch of 
the Susquehanna. 



INTRODUCTION. 59 

Sometime in the year 1744, John Armstrong, a Trader, 
among the Indians, west of the Susquehanna, with two of 
his servants or men, namely, James Smith and Woodworth 
Arnold, was murdered by an Indian of the Delaware tribe, 
named Musemeelin, on the Juniata river. Seven white 
men and five Indians went in search of the bodies of those 
murdered ; after some search, found and buried them. The 
murderer was afterwards apprehended, and delivered up by 
his own nation, and imprisoned at Lancaster, whence he was 
removed to Philadelphia, lest he should escape, or his trial 
and execution produce an unfavorable impression on his coun- 
trymen about to assemble, for a conference with the whites 
at Lancaster. The Governor directed or required that the 
property of Armstrong should be returned to his family. He 
also invited a deputation to attend the trial of Musemeelin, 
and his execution, if found guilty. 

Alexander Armstrong, of Lancaster county, a brother of 
the deceased, addressed a letter to Allumoppies, King of the 
Delawares, at Shamokin, touching the death of his brother, 
and some threats made by some Delaware Indians upon his 
hfe. 

Apkil 25, 1744. 

To Allumoppies, King of the Delawares : Great Sir, as a parcel of 
your men have murdered my brother, and two of his men, I wrote you, 
knowing you to be a king of justice, that you will send us in all the 
murderers and the men that were with them. As I looked for the 
corpse of my murdered brother; for that reason your men threaten ray 
life ; and I cannot live in my house. Now as we have no inclination 
or mmd to go to war with you, our friends ; as a friend, I desire that 
you will keep your men from doing me harm, and also to send the mur- 
derers and their companions. 

I expect an answer ; and am your much hurt friend and brother, 

Alexander Armstrokg. 

A party of men had made search for, and found the bodies. 
of the murdered, as appears from Armstrong's letter above, 
and the followuig deposition : 

Paxtost, April 19, 1744. 
The deposition of the subscribers testifieth and saith, that the sub- 
scribers having a suspicion that John Armstrong, trader, together with 
his men, James Smith and Woodward Arnold, were murdered by the 
Indians. — They met at the house of Joseph Chambers, in Paxton,* and 
there consulted to go to Shamokin, to consult with the Delaware King 
and Shickcalimy,and there council what they should do concerning the 

• Mr. McCallister's, or formerly Fort Hunter. 



60 INTRODUCTION. 

affair, whereupon the King and Council ordered eight of their men to 
go with the deponents to the house of James Berry in order to go in 
quest of the murdered persons, but that night they came to the said 
Berry's houSe, three of the eight Indians ran away, and the next morn- 
ing these deponents, with the five Indians that remained, set out on 
their journey peaceably to the last supposed sleeping place of the 
deceased, and upon their arrival these deponents dispersed them- 
selves in order to find out the corpse of the deceased, and one of 
the deponents, named James Berry, a small distance from the afore- 
said sleeping place, came to a white oak tree, which had three not- 
ches on It, and close by said tree he found a shoulder bone, which 
the deponent does suppose to be John Armstrong's, and that he him- 
self was eating by the Indians, which he carried to the aforesaid 
sleeping place and showed it to his companions, one of whom hand- 
ed it to the said five Indians to know what bone it was, and they, 
after passing different sentiments upon it, handed it to a Delaware 
Indian who was suspected by the deponents, and ihey testify and say, 
that as soon us the Indian took the bone in his hand, his nose gushed out icith 
blood, and directly handed it to another. From whence these depo- 
nents steered along a path about three or four miles to the Narrows 
of Juniata, where they suspected the murder to have been commit- 
ted, and where the Allegheny road crosses ihe creek, these depon- 
ents sat down in order to consult on what measures to take in or- 
der to proceed on a discovery. Whereupon most of the white men, 
these deponents, crossed the creek again, aad went down the creek, 
and crossed into an island, where these deponents had intelligence the 
corpse had been thrown; and there they met the rest of the white men 
and Indians, who were in company, and there consulted to go further 
down the creek in quest of the corpse, and these deponents further say, 
they ordered the Indians to go down the creek on the other side ; but 
they all followed these deponents, at a small distance, except one Indi- 
an who crossed the creek again ; and soon after, these deponents see- 
ing some Bald eagles and other fowls, suspected the corpse to be there- 
abouts ; and then lost sight of the Indians, and immediately found one 
of the corpse, which these deponents say, was the corpse of James 
Smith, one of said Armstrong's men ; and directly upon finding the 
corpse these deponents heard three shots of guns, which they had great 
reason to think were the Indians, their companions, who had deserted 
from them ; and in order to let them know that they had found the 
corpse, these deponents fired three guns, but to no purpose, for they 
never saw the Indians any more. And about a quarter of a mile fur- 
ther down the creek, they saw more Bald eagles, whereupon they made 
down towards the place, where they found another corpse (being the 
corpse of Woodworth Arnold, the other servant of said Armstrong) ly- 
ing on a rock, and then went to the former sleeping place, where ihey 
had appointed to meet the Indians; but saw no Indians, only that the 
Indians had been there and cooked some victuals for themselves, and 
had gone off. 

And that night, the deponents further say, they had great reason to 
suspect that the Indians were then thereabouts, and intended to do them 
some damage ; for a dog these deponents had with them, barked that 
night, which wae remarkable, for the said dog had not barked all the 
time they were out, till that night, nor ever since, which occasioned 



INTRODUCTION. 61 

these deponents to stand upon iheir guard behind the trees, with their 
guns cocked that night. Next morning these deponents went back to 
the corpses which they lound to be barbarously and inhumanly mur- 
dered, by very gashed, deep cuts on their hands with a tomahawk or 
such like weapon, which had sunk into their sculls and brains ; and in 
one of the corpses there appeared a hole in his scull near the cut, 
which was supposed to be with a tomahawk, which hole, these depo- 
nents do believe to be a bullet hole. And these deponents, after taking 
a particular view of the corpses, as their melancholy condition would 
admit, they buried them as decently as their circumstances would al- 
low, and returned home to Paxton, the Allegheny road to John Harris'; 
thinking it dangerous to return the same way they went out — And fur- 
ther these deponents say not. 

These same deponents being legally qualified, before me, James Arm- 
strong, one of his Majesty's justices of the peace for the county of 
Lancaster, have hereunto set their hands in testimony thereof. 

James Aumstrong. 

Alexander Armstrong, Thomas M'Kee, Francis Ellis, John Florster, 
William Baskins, James Berry, John Watt, James Armstrong, David 
Denny. 

The atrocity of this murder was so aggravating, that a Provincial 
Council was held, and it was resolved that Conrad Weiser, the Pro- 
vincial Interpreter and Indian agent, should be sent to Shamokin, to 
make demands, in the name of the governor, for some others concerned 
in the murder. The following extracts give a detailed account of all 
the circumstances : " 

At a council April 25, 1744—" The Governor, George Thomas, laid 
before the Board a letter dated April 22, 1744, from Mr. Cookson, at 
Lancaster, purporting that John Armstrong, an Indian trader, with hjs 
two servants Wood'worth Arnold and James Smith had been murdered 
at Juniata by three Delaware Indians, and that John Musemeelin and 
Johnson o( Neshalleeny, two of the Indians concerned in the murder 
had been seized by the order of Shickcalamy, and the other Indian 
chiefs at Shamokin, and sent under a guard of Indians to be delivered 
up to justice; that one was actually delivered up in jail at Lancaster; 
but the other had made his escape from the persons to whose care he 
was committed. 

His honor then sent to the Chief Justice to consult him about the 
steps proper to be taken to bring the Indian to his trial, but as he was 
absent at a Court of Oyer and Terminer in Bucks county, it was the 
opinion of the Board that the Indian, Musemeelin, should be immedi- 
ately removed to Philadelphia jail, and that Conrad Weiser should be 
immediately despatched to the chiefs of the Delaware Indians at Sha- 
mokin to make a peremptory demand in his honor's name of the other 
murderers concerned, and that Shickcalamy and the other Indians 
there do order immediate search to be made for the goods of which the 
deceased was robbed, in order to their being put into the hands of his 
brother for the satisfaction of his creditors, or the support of his family. 
And at the same time to inform them that the chiefs of the Indians 
which shall meet at Lancaster on the treaty with our neighboring gov- 

6 



b2 INTRODUCTION. 

ernraents, will be desired to depute some of their number to be present 
at the trial and at the execution of such as shall be found g;uilty. 

Conrad Weiser was accordingly sent to Shamokin. He writes, in 
his Journal, Shamokin, May 2d, 1744 : This day I delivered the Gov- 
ernor's message to Allumoppies the Delaware chief, and the rest of De- 
laware Indians in the presence of Shickcalamy and a few more of the 
Six Nations. The purport of which was, that I was sent express by 
the Governor and Council to demand those that had been concerned 
with Musemeelin in murdering John Armstrong, Woodwonh Arnold 
and James Smith ; that their bodies might be searched for, and decent- 
ly buried ; that the goods be likewise found and restored without fraud . 
It was delivered them by me in the Mohawk language, and interpreted 
into Delaware by Andrew, Madame Montour's son. 

In the afternoon Allumoppies, in the presence of the aforesaid Ind 
ans, made the following answers : 

Brother, the Governor : It is true that we, the Delaware Indians, by 
the investigation of the evil spirit,have murdered /as. Armstrong and his 
men ; we have transgressed, and we are ashamed to look up.' We have 
taken the murderer and delivered him to the relations of the deceased, 
to be dealt with according to his works. 

Brother, the Governor: Your demand for the guard is very just; we 
have gathered some of ihem ; we will do the utmost of what we can to 
find them all. We do no? doubt but we can find out the most part, and 
whatever is wanting, we will make up with skins, which is what the 
guard are sent for to the woods. 

Brother, the Governor : The dead bodies are buried. It is certain 
that John Armstrong was buried by the murderer, and the other two by 
those that searched for them. Our hearts are in mourning, and we are 
in a dismal condition, and cannot say any thing at present. 

Then Shickcalamy with the rest of the Indians of the Six Nations 
their present said : Brother the Governor — We have been all misin- 
formed on both sides about the unhappy accident. Musemeelin has 
certainly murdered the three white men himself, and upon his bare 
accusation of Neshaleeny's son, which was nothing but spite, the said 
Neshaleeny's son was seized, and made a prisoner. Our cousins, the 
Delaware Indians, being then drunk, in particular Allumoppies, never 
examined things, but made an innocent person prisoner, which gave a 
great deal of disturbance amongst us. However the two prisoners were 
sent, and by the way in going down the river they stopped at the house 
of James Berry; James told the young man, "I am sorry to see you in 
such a condition, I have known you from a boy, and always loved you." 
Then the young man seemed to be very much struck to the heart, and 
said, " I have said nothing yet, but I will tell all, let all the Indians come 
up, and the white people also, they shall hear it." And then told Mu- 
semeelin in the presence of the people : Now I am going to die for your 
wickedness ; you have killed all the three white men. I never did in- 
tend to kill any of them. The Musemeelin in anger said : It is true, I 
have killed them ; I am a man, you are a coward ; it is a great satis- 
faction to me to have killed them ; I will die with joy for having killed 
a great rogue and his companicns. Upon which the young man was 
set at liberty by the Indians. 

We desire therefore our brother, the Governor, will not insist to have 
either of the two young men in prison or condemned to die : it^is not 



INTRODUCTION. 63 

with Indians as with white people, to put people in prison on suspic- 
ion or trifles. Indians must first be found guilty of a crime, then judg- 
ment is given and immediately executed. We will give you faithfully 
all the particulars ; and at the ensuing treaty entirely satisfy you ; in 
the meantime, we desire that good friendship and harmony continue; 
and that we may live long together, is the hearty desire of your breth- 
ren, the Indians of the United Six Nations present at Shamokin. 

The following is what Shickcalamy declared to be the truth of the 
story concerning the murder of John Armstrong, Woodworth Arnold 
and James Smith from the beginning to the end, to wit: 

Thai Musemeelin owing some skins to John Armstrong, the said 
Armstrong seized a horse of the said Musemeelin and a rifled gun ; the 
gun was taken by James Smith, deceased. Some time last winter Mu- 
semeelin met Armstrong on the river Juniata, and paid all but twenty 
shillings, for which he offered a neck-belt in pawn to Armstrong and 
demanded his horse, and James Armstrong refused it, and would not 
deliver up the horse, but enlarged the debt, as his usual custom was, 
and after some quarrel, the Indian went away in great anger without 
his horse to his hunting cabin. Some time after this, Armstrong, with 
his two companions in their way to Ohio passed by the said Musemee- 
lin's hunting cabin, his wife, only bemg at home, demanded the horse 
of Armstrong, because he was her proper goods, but did not get him. 
Armstrong had by this time sold or lent the horse to James Berry; after 
Musemeelin came from hunting, his wife told him that Armstrong was 
gone by, and that she had demanded the horse of him, but did not get 
him — and as is thought pressed him to pursue and take revenge of 
Armstrong. The third day in the morning after James Armstrong was 
gone by, Musemeelin said to the two young men that hunted with him, 
come let us go towards the Great Hills to hunt bears ; accordingly they 
went all three in company ; after they had gone a good way Musemee- 
lin who was foremost was told by the two young men that they were 
out of their course. Come you along, said Musemeelin, and they ac- 
cordingly followed him till they came to the path that leads to the Ohio. 
Then Musemeelin told them he had a good mind to go and fetch his 
horse back from Armstrong, and desired the two young men to come 
along ; accordingly they went. It was then almost night, and they tra- 
velled till next morning. Musemeelin said, now they are not far off. 
We will make ourselves black, then they will be frightened and will 
deliver up the horse immediately, and I will tell Jack, that if he don't 
give me the horse, I will kill him, and when he said so, he laughed. 
The young men thought he joked, as he used to do. They did not 
blacken themselves, but he did. When the sun was above the trees, 
or about an hour high, they all came to the fire, where they found James 
Smith sitting, and they also sat down. Musemeelin asked where Jack 
was? Smith told him that he was gone to clear the road a little. Mu- 
semeelin said, he wanted to speak with him, and went that way, and 
after he had gone a little distance from the fire, he said something, and 
looked back laughing, but he having a thick throat, and his speech be- 
ing very bad, and their talking with Smith, hindered them from under- 
standing what he said ; they did not mind it. They being hungry. Smith 
told them to kill some turtles, of which they were plenty, and we would 
make some bread, and by and by, they would all eat together. While 
they were talking, they heard a gan go off not far off, at which time 



64 INTRODUCTION. 

Woodworth Arnold was killed as they learned afterwards. Soon after 
Musemeelin came back and said, why did you not kill that white man 
according as I bid you, I have laid the other two down 1 At this they 
were surprised, and one of the young men, commonly called Jemmey, 
run away to the river side. Musemeelin said to the other, how will 
you do to kill Catawbaws, if you cannot kill white men 1 You cow- 
ards, I'll show you how you must do; and then taking up the English 
axe that lay there,he struck it 2 times into Smith's head before he died. 
Smith never stirred. Then he told the young Indian to call the other ; 
but he was so terrified he could not call. Musemeelin then went and 
fetched him and said to him that two of the white men were killed, he 
must now go and kill the third ; then each of them would have killed 
one. But neither of them dare venture to talk any thing about it. Then 
he pressed them to go along with him — he went foremost; then one of 
the young men told the other as they went along, my friend don't you 
kill any of the white people, let him do what he will ; I have not killed 
Smith, he has done it himself, we have no need to do such a barbarous 
thing. Musemeelin being then a good way before them in a hurry, 
they soon saw John Armstrong sitting upon an old log. Musemeelin 
spoke to him and said, where is ray horse ? Armstrong made answer 
and said, he will come by and by; you shall have him. I want him now, 
said Musemeelin. Armstrong answered, you shall have him. Come 
let us go to that fire — which was at some distance from the place where 
Armstrong sat — and let us talk and smoke together. Go along then, 
said Musemeelin. I am coming, said Armstrong, do you go before ; 
Musemeelin, do you go foremost. Armstrong looked then like a dead 
man, and went towards the fire and was immediately shot in his back 
by Musemeelin and fell. Musemeelin then took his hatchet and struck 
it into Armstrong's head, and said, give me my horse I tell you. By 
this time one of the young men had fled again that had gone away be- 
fore, but he returned in a short time. Musemeelin then told the young 
men, they must not offer to discover or tell a word about what had been 
done for their lives, but they must help-him to bury Jack, and the other 
two were to be thrown into the river. After that was dowe Musemeelin 
ordered them to load the horses and follow towards the hill, where they 
intended to hide the goods ; accordingly they did, and as they were go- 
ing, Musemeelin told them that as there were a great many Indians 
hunting about that place, if they should happen to meet with any, they 
must be killed to prevent betraying them. As they went along, Muse- 
meelin going before, the two young men agreed to run away as soon 
as they could meet with any Indians, and not to hurt any body. They 
came to the desired place, the horses were unloaded, and Musemeelin 
opened the bundles, and offered the two young men each a parcel of 
goods. They told him that as they had already sold their skins, and 
every body knew they had nothing, they would certainly be charged 
■with a black action, were they to bring any goods to the town, and 
therefore they would not accept of any; but promised nevertheless not 
to betray him. Now, says Musemeelin, I know what you were talking 
about when you staid so far behind. 

The two young men being in great danger of losing their lives — of 
which they had been much afraid all that day — accepted of what he 
offered to them, and the rest of the goods they put in a heap and cov- 
«red them from the rain, and then went to their hunting cabin. Muse^ 



INTRODUCTION. 65 

meelin unexpectedly finding two or three more Indians there, laid down 
his goods, and said he had killed Jack Armstrong and taken pay for his 
horse, and should any of them discover it, that person he would like- 
wise kill; but otherwise they might all lake a part of the goods. The 
young man, called Jimmy, went away to Shamokin, after Musemeelin 
was gone to bury the goods with three more Indians, with whom he 
had prevailed; one of them was Neshaleeny's son, whom he had or- 
dered to kill James Smith, but these Indians wonid not have any of the 
goods. Some time after the young Indian had been in Shamokin, it 
was whispered about that some of the Delaware Indians had killed 
Armstrong and his men. A drunken Indian came to one of the Tudo- 
ious houses at night and told the man of the house that he could tell 
him a piece of bad news. What is that ^ said the other. 'l"he drunken 
man said, some of our Delaware Indians have killed Armstrong and his 
men, which, if our chiefs should not resent, and take them up, I will 
kill them myself to prevent a disturbance between us and the white 
people, our brother. Next morning, Shickcalamy and some other Indi- 
ans of the Delawares were called to assist Allumoppies in Council. 
When Shickcalamy and Allumoppies gut one of the Tudolous Indians 
to write a letter to me to desire me to come to Shamokin in all haste ; 
that the Indians were much dissatisfied in mind. This letter was 
brought to my house by four Delaware Indians sent express; but I was 
then in Philadelphia, and when I came home and found all particulars 
mentioned in this letter, and that none of the Indians of the Six Nations 
had been down, I did not care to meddle with Delaware Indian affairs, 
and staid at home till I received the governor's orders to go, which was 
about two weeks after, Allumoppies was advised by his council lo em- 
ply a conjurer, or as they ca I it, lo find (ml the murderer, accordingly he 
did, and the Indians met, the Seer being busy all night, told them in the 
morning to examine such and such an one, they were present when 
Armstrong was killed, naming the two young men ; Musemeelin was 
present. .Accordingly Allumoppies, Quitheyyquent and Thomas Green, 
an Indian, went to him that had fled first and examined him; he told 
the whole story very freely; then they went to the other, but he would 
not say a word, but went away and left him. The three Indians re- 
turned to Shickcalamy and informed them of what discovery they had 
made. When it was agreed to secure the murderers, and deliver them 
up to the white people. Then a great noise arose among the Delaware 
Indians, and sojiie were afraid ot their lives and went into the woods; 
not one cared lo meddle with Musemeelin, and the other that could not 
be prevailed cm to discover any thing, because of the resentment of 
their families; but they being pressed by Shickcalamy's son to secure 
the murderers, otherwise they would be cut off from the chain of friend- 
ship; four or five of the Delawares made Musemeelin and the other 
young man prisoners and tied thein both. They lay twenty-four hours 
and none would venture to conduct them down ; because of the great 
division among the Delaware Indians, and Allumoppies in danger of 
being killed, fled to Shickcalamy and begged his protection. At last 
Shickcalamy's son. Jack, went to the Delawares, most of them being 
drunk, as they had been for several days, and told them to deliver the 
prisoners to Alexander Armstrong, and thfy were afraid to do it; they 
might separate their heads from their bodies, and lay them in the ca- 
noe, and carry them to Alexander to roast and eat them, that would sai- 

6' 



66 INTRODUCTION. 

isfy his revenge as he wants to eat Indians. They prevailed with the 
said Jack to assist them, and accordingly he and his brother and some 
of the Delawares went with two canoes and carried them off. 

Conrad Weiser, in a letter to a friend, dated Heidelberg, 1746. ad- 
verts to an interesting incident which occurred at the conclusion of this 
interview at Shamokin. He says, "two years ago I was sent by the 
Governor to Shamokin, on account of the unhappy death of John Arm- 
strong, the Indian trader, (1744.) After I had performed my errand, 
there was a feast prepared, to which the Governor's messengers were 
invited; there were about one hundred persons present, to whom, after 
we had in great silence, devoured a fat bear, the eldest of the chiefs 
made a speech, in which he said ; " That, by a great misfortune, three 
of the brethren, the ivhitc men, had been killed by an Indian ; that nev- 
ertheless the sun was not set, (meaning there was no war,) it had only 
been somewhat darkened by a small cloud, which was now done away; 
he that had done evil was like to be punished, and the land remain in 
peace ; therefore he exhorted his people to thankfulness to God; and 
therefore he began to sing with an awful solemnity, but without ex- 
pressing any words ; the others accompanied him with great earnest- 
ness of fervor, spoke these words: "Thanks, thanks, be to thee, thou 
great Lord of the world, in that thou hast again caused the sun to shine, 
and hast dispersed the dark cloud — the Indians are thine." 



CHAPTER V. 

INDIAN MASSACRES — (1754). 

Abductions in 1753; viz: of Evans, Devoy, Nicholson, Magenty, Burns, 
Hutchinson of Cumberland county — Frontier inhabitants fear the 
Indians, and petition Governor Hamilton, from Cumberland and Lan- 
caster counties — Governor Hamilton urges the Assembly to afford 
the frontier settlers aid — The government solicitors to retain the 
friendship and aid of the Indians — Weiser sent to Aughwick— Israel, 
an Indian of the Six Nations, killed Joseph Cample in Cumberland 
(Franklin county) — Croghan's letter touching this murder, &c. 

Though we find only occasionally a murder committed 
upon the whites hy the Indians, before Braddock's defeat, 
nevertheless the number of abductions was considerable be- 
fore that time. Among others, inhabitants of Cumberland 
county, that were taken captive, were John Evans, Henry 
Devoy, Owen Nicholson, Alexander Magenty, Patrick Burns, 



INTRODUCTION. 67 

and George Hutchison, all of ■■A^hom returned again to Cum- 
berland — these were captured in 1752, '53, and '54 ; and 
some of them endured great hardships. 

A number of French Indians, headed hy a Frenchman, took George 
Henry, John Evans, James Devoy and Owen Nicholson, prior to 1753. 
They were carried to Quebec, and from thence sent to Rochelle, in 
France, where they were released by the English ambassador, and by 
him sent to London ; from there they got a passage to Philadelphia; 
and on presenting a petition to the Assembly, May 22, 1753; and the 
House having considered the petitioners unhappy case were granted 
them as much money as bore their expenses to Cumberland county, 
their place of residence. Sixteen pounds were allowed them. 

While one Alexander Magenty was trading with the Cuttawa Indians, 
v/ho were in alliance with the crown of Great Britain, and on return- 
ing home, he was taken prisoner, January 26 1753, by a party of French 
Indians of the Cagaawaga Nalion, near the river Kanlucqid, a western 
branch of the Ohio. The Indians beat and abused Magenty in the most 
barbarous and cruel manner; then sent him to Montreal. From that place 
the prisoner wrote a letter to the Mayor of Albany, requesting him to 
obtain his release, which was ultimately effected, by paying a consid- 
erable sum of money to the Indians who had taken him. Magenty re- 
turned to Philadelphia in the autumn of 1753, destitute of clothes and 
other necessaries ; the Assembly granted him six pounds to bear his 
expenses to Cumberland county, the place of his residence. 

In November 1755, the Assembly granted ten pounds to Patrick 
Burns and George Hutchinson, who had been taken prisoners by the 
Indians, and made their escape, to furnish them necessaries in their 
distressed circumstances, to return from Philadelphia to Cumberland 
county, their place of residence. Voles of Assembly, vol. iv. 

A strict amity had existed between the Indians and the 
inhabitants of Pennsylvania, with occasional personal or in- 
dividual disputes, for a space of about seventy years ; but 
now, 1753 and '54 a dilTierent spirit manifested itself in the 
conduct of some of the Indians, in the north-western parts 
of the State, and along the frontier settlements of the pro- 
vince — they joined with the French against the English, and 
made havoc of their former friends, the English ; many of 
whom, at the instigation of their new allies, the French, they 
murdered most cruelly, as will be apparent from the following 
detailed accounts of massacres. A dark cloud obscured the 
hitherto existing friendly relations, and consternation seized 
hold of those, who seemed to have nothing to fear from the 
aborigines. A panic spread through the frontier settlers. 

The inhabitants of Cumberland now began to fear greatly 
that the enemy, who had recently made incursions into Vir- 
ginia would, before long, fall upon them too, and they peti- 



68 INTRODUCTION. 

tioned Governor Hamilton to aid them in their critical condi- 
tion. The inhabitants of the upper part of Lancaster (now 
Dauphin) county, sent a similar petition to the Governor and 
council — (given below.) 

The address of ihe subscribers of the county nf Cumberland, sheweth 
that we are now in most imminent danger by a powerful army o( cru- 
el, merciless and inhumane enemies, by whom our lives, liberties, es- 
tates, and all that tends to promote our welfare, are in the utmost dan- 
ger of dreadful destruction, and this lamentable truth is most evident 
from the late defeat of the Virginia forces, and now as we are under 
j'our Honor's protection, we would beg your immediate notice, we liv- 
ing upon the Frontiers of the Province and our enemies so close upon 
us, nothing doubting but these considerations will affect your Honor, 
and as you have our welfare at heart, that you will defer nothing that 
may lend to hasten our relief. And we have hereby appointed our most 
trusty friends, James Burd and Philip Davies, our commissioners, to 
deliver this our petition to your Honor, and in hopes of your due atten- 
tion and regard thereto, we are your Honor's devoted servants, and as 
in duty bound shall ever pray : 

Cumberland, 15th July, 1754. 

Benjamin Chambers Robert Chambers James Carnahan James Mc- 
Teer Charles Morrow John Mitchell Joseph Armstrong John Miller 
Alexander Culbertson James Holiday Nathaniel Wilson Wm. McCord 
Jas. Jack John Smith Fran. West James Sharp John Ervin Matthew 
Arthur James McCormick Charles Magill George Finly John Dotter 
John Cesna Joseph Culbertson Samuel Culbertson John Thompson 
John Reynolds George Hamilton David Magaw James Chambers Her- 
manns Alrichs Robert Meek Archibald Machan Benjamin BIyth Joseph 
McKinney John Thompson Francis Campbell John Finly Isaac Miller 
John Machan John Miller John Blair James Blair James Moore John 
Finly William White \^'illiam Buchanan John Montgomery Andrew 
McFarlane Jas. Brandon John Pattison John Creighead Wm. MoClure 
Samuel Stevens William Brown Pat. McFarlan Stephen Foulk John 
Armstrong Stephen Foulk jr. William McCoskry Charles Pattison Wm 
Miller John Prentice Arthur Forster William Blyth Gideon Griffiih 
Thomas Henderson Andrew Mclntyre John McCuer Robert Guthrie 
George Davidson Robert Miller Phomas Willson Thomas l^ockert To- 
bias Hendricks. The petition was read in Council, August 6, 1754. 

The humble petition of the inhabitants of the townships of Paxton, 
Derry and Hanover, Lancaster county, humble sheweth that your peti- 
tioners being settled on and near ihe river Susquehannah, apprehend 
themselves in great danger from the French and French Indians, as it 
IS in their power several times in the year to transport themselves with 
ammunition, artillery and every necessary, down the said river — and 
their conduct of late to the neighboring Provinces increases our dread 
of a speedy visit from them, as we are as near and convenient as the 
Provinces already attacked, and are less capable of defending our- 
selves, as we are unprovided with arms and ammunition and unable to 
purchase them. A great number are warm and active in these parts 
lor the defence of themselves and country, were they enabled so to do, 



INTRODUCTION. 



69 



(although not such a number as would be able to withstand the enemy) 
we, your petitioners, therefore humbly pray that your Honor would take 
our distressed condition into consideration and make such provision 
for us as may prevent ourselves and families from being destroyed 
and ruined hy such a cruel enemy ; and your petitioners as in duty will 
ever pray. 

Dated July 22, 1754. 
Thos. Florster Jas. Armstrong John Harris Thos. Simpson Samuel 
Simson John Carson David Shields William McMuUen John Cuoit 
William Armstrong James Armstrong Wm. Bell John Daugherty Jas. 
Atkin And. Cochrin James Reed Thomas Rotherford T. McCarter Wm. 
Steel Samuel Hunter Thos. Mays Jas. Coler Henry Renicks Rich. Mc- 
Clure Thomas Dugan John Johnson Peter Fleming Thomas Sturgeon 
Matthew Taylor Jeremiah Sturgeon Thomas King Robert Smith Adam 
Reed, John Crawford Thomas Crawford John M'Clure Thomas Hume 
Thos. Stean John Hume John Crage Thos. McCleur Wm. McCleur John 
Rodgers James Peterson John Young Ez. Sankey John Florster Mitchell 
Graham James Toalen Jas. Galbreath James Campel Robert Boyd Jas. 
Chambers Robert Armstrong John Campel Hugh Black, Thos. Black. 
This Pet. read in council 6th Aug. 1754. 

Fear, ever of a contagious nature, seized hold of those 
more remotely settled from the frontier. The inhabitants of 
Donegal township, Lancaster county, also felt that they, as 
well as their fellow-inhabitants, were in great danger of being 
murdered by the savages and their French allies ; in view of 
the impending dangers, joined in petitioning the Governor to 
take their distressed condition into consideration. 

The humble petition of us, inhabitants of Donegal, humbly sheweth 
that your petitioners being duly sensible of the great dangers that our- 
selves are now in, by reason of such a cruel and merciless enemy as 
"those we are engaged with, we therefore desire to join with our 
friends and neighbors, in requesting your honor to take our distress- 
ed condition into your consideration, and to put us in a condition 
that we may be able to defend ourselves, and we, on our part, will 
join with all that we can do for the safety of the Province, and your 
petitioners, as in duty bound, will pray. 

We empower our trusty friends, James Galbraith, Esq. and Thomas 
Foster, Esq., to present this to your Honor, in our behalt, July 26, 
1754. 

Ephraim Moor William Smith Wm. Allison Wm. Miller John Mc- 
Queen John Semple Robert Semple An. McCewen Jas. Shaw -Robert 
Ramsey Richard Gilston Thos. Cotter Jno. Mclntyr David Cook John 
TVtitchell David Bayers John Naulear Jos. Howard Sam. Smith Thomas 
Mitchell William Neley John Jamison Nicholas McClarland William 
McClelan Mark Clark Cul. Nicholson Thos.Clining James.Clark Rob- 
ert Brackan Thos. Wilson Jno. Allison James Allison, Wm. McCean 
William Miller Thos. Hall John Hall Rob.Karr Robert Smart William 
Stuart William Trinton Wm. Starel Barney Hughs John Bayty /ames 
Bayty John McKracan /ames Anderson James Work Thos. Hutcheson 



70 INTRODUCTION. 

/as. Lowry Robt. Shankland George Clark Hugh Lynn John Brown 
/no. Collins Moses Andrews /as. Hutchison /ames Foster Mordecai 
Bane /oseph McCoskey Andrew Christy Abraham Scott Robert Car- 
ithers Robl. Nelson Patrick Winters Robt. Frier Robert McCleand Wm. 
Ramage John Moore /oseph Marchet /ames Stinson /as. Cook /ohn 
Galbreath David Craize John Willson Jos. Lyon /no. Allison /ames 
Karr Thomas Harris Zach. Moor /ames Semple William Scott John. 
Foster Robert Mordoch Thomas Patton William Spear Moses Potts 
Abraham Scott Robt. Allison John Rea /ames Fulton John McColloch 
Thomas Brees John Kelly Chas. Rowan Hugh Hall /ames Walker. 
Read in Council, Aug. 6, 1754. 

The Governor, on maturely considering the condition of 
the frontier settlers, sent a message to the Assembly, then 
in session, urging in strong terms that immediate aid should 
be afforded the petitioners. In his message (August 1754) he 
says, " The people of Cumberland and the upper parts of 
Lancaster county, are so apprehensive of danger, at this criti- 
cal juncture, from the nearness of French and savagesunder 
their influence, that the principal inhabitants have, in the 
most earnest manner, petitioned me to provide for their pro- 
tection ; representing withal, that a great number would be 
warm and active in defence of themselves and their country, 
were they enabled so to be, by being supplied with arms and 
ammunition, which many of them are unable to purchase at 
their own private expence. The substance of these several 
petitions, which T shall likewise order to be laid before you, 
appears to me, gentlemen, to be of the greatest importance, 
and well worthy of your most serious attention. You may 
be assured, that nothing which depends on me shall be want- 
ing towards affording them the protection they desire ; but 
you cannot at the same tiine but be sensible how little it is in 
my power to answ^er their expectations without the aid of 
your house. It becomes then my indispensable duty, and I 
cannot on any account whatever, excuse myself from pressing 
you to turn your thoughts on the defenceless state of the 
Province in general, as well as of our back inhabitants in 
particular ; and to provide such means for the security of the 
whole, as shall be thought at once both reasonable and effec- 
tual to the ends proposed ; in which, as in every other mat- 
ter, consistent with my honor, and the trust reposed in me, 
1 promise you my hearty concurrence. — Votes of Assembly, 
iv. 319, Aug. 1754. 

These abductions were mere preludes of more sanguinary 



INTRODUCTION. 71 

sequences. Many of the Indians heretofore known as "friend- 
ly Indians" became disaffected, and favored the French inte- 
rests in the west — ready to aid the French in their schemes. 
The government of the Province of Pennsylvania and Virgi- 
nia, were anxious to not only have the continued friendship 
of those who still professed to be friendly, but, if possible, to 
regain the friendship of the disaffected ; for that purpose Con- 
rad Weiser was sent, in the month of September, 1754, to 
Aughwick, where George Croghan, the Indian agent, had 
quite a number of different tribes under his care. Notwith- 
standing that Mr. Weiser, as the agent of the government, 
did all in his power, aided by liberal donations of money, to 
secure the continued friendly assistance of the Indians, mur- 
ders were committed by some unknown Indian. For a few 
days after Mr. Weiser had left Croghan's, an Indian of the 
Six Nations, hamed Israel, penetrated into the frontier settle- 
ments, and killed an Indian trader, Joseph Campble, at the 
house of Anthony Thompson, near Parnall's Knob, Cumber- 
land county, (now Franklin,) as the following letter shows: 

Aughwick, September the 27th, 1754. 
May it please your Honor : 

Since Mr. Weiser left this, an Indian of the Six Nations, named 
Israel, killed one Joseph Campble, an Indian Trader, at the house of 
one Anthony Thompson, at the foot of the Tuscarora Valley, near Par- 
nall's Knob. As soon as I heard it, I went down to Thompson's and 
took several of the chiefs of the Indians with me, when I met William 
Maxwell, Esq. The Indian made his escape before I got there. I took 
the qualification of the persons who were present at the murder, and 
delivered them to Mr. Maxwell to be sent to your Honor, with the 
speech made by the chiefs of the Indians on that occasion, which, I sup- 
pose, your Honor has received. 

I have heard many accounts from Ohio since Mr. Weiser left this, 
all of which agree that the French have received a re-inforcement of 
men and provision from Canada, to the fort. An Indian returned yes- 
terdav to this place, whom I had sent to the fort for intelligence ; he 
confirms the above accounts, and further says, there were about sixty 
French Indians had come while he staid there, and that they expected 
better than two hundred more every day ; he says that the French de- 
sign to send those Indians with some French, in several parties, to an- 
noy the back settlements, which the French say, will put a stop to any 
English forces marching out this fall to attack them. This Indian 
likewise says that the French will do their endeavor to have the Half- 
King Scarrayooday, Capt. Montour and myself, killed this fall. This 
Indian, I think is to be believed, if there can be any credit given to what 
an Indian says. He presses me strongly to leave this place, and not 
live in any of the back parts. The scheme of sending several parties 
to annoy the back settlements seems so much like French policy, that 
I can't help thinking it true. 



72 INTRODUCTION. 

I hear from Colonel Innes that there certainly have been some 
French Indians at the Camp at Will's creek, and fired on the sentry in 
the dead of the night. If the French prosecute this scheme, I don't 
know what will become of the back parts of Cumberland county, which 
is much exposed. The back parts of Virginia and Maryland are cov- 
ered by the English Camp, so that most of the inhabitants are safe. 

I would have written to your Honor before now, on this head, I only 
waited the return of this Indian messenger, whose account I really 
think is to be depended on. The Indians here seem very uneasy at 
their long stay, as they have heard nothing from the Governor of Vir- 
ginia, nor of your Honor since Mr. Weiser went away ; nor do they 
see the English making any preparations to attack the French, which 
seems to give them a great deal of concern. I believe several of the 
Indians will soon go to the Six Nation country ; and then I suppose the 
rest will be obliged to tall in with the French. If this happens then 
all the back settlements will be left to the mercy of an outrageous 
enemy. 

I beg your Honor's pardon for mentioning the consequences which 
most certainly attend the slow motion of the English government, as 
they are well known to your Honor ; and that I am sensible your Ho- 
nor had done all in your power for the security of those parts. I hope 
as soon as his Honor, Governor Morris, is arrived, I shall hear what is 
to be done with those Indians. I assure your Honor it will not be in 
my power to keep them together much longer. 

I am your Honor's most humble and most ob't servant, 

Geo. Croohak. 

Aughwick, Old Town. 



CHAPTER VI. 

INDIAN MASSACRES — (1755). 

Ardent hostilities between the French and English—Thirteen persons 
murdered near Will's creek — James Smith waylaid ; his companion 
killed and scalped by the Indians— Forts and Block-houses erected 
along the Frontiers— A fort commenced at Shippensburg— Brad- 
dock's defeat encourages the French and their Indian allies— Fron- 
tier settlers again petition government for protection — Plans for de- 
fence of the Frontiers — Governor Morris's language in relation to 
Braddock's defeat — Twenty-five persons carried off at Penn's creek ; 
buildings burnt ; several persons killed and scalped, viz: Jacques 
Le Roy, or Jacob King and others— Four men killed by the Indians, 
who were returning from Shamokin to Harris's ferry— Extensive 
settlements deserted — Harris's letters touching the above massacre — 
Weiser's letters— Harris's letter— Anecdote from Heckewelder's nar- 
rative—Frontier settlers abandon their homes— Murders committed 
in the Great Cove— Chambers's letter; Potter's letter; Armstrong's 
letter; Burd's letter ; Hoop's letter, touching the murder committed 
in Big Cove— Five persons killed near TuUyhoes gap— Murders 
committed in Shearman's valley — Weiser's letter alluding thereto. 

Clouds of portentous indication were fast gathering, and 
excited general alarm; for actual hostilities between the 
French, aided by their Indian allies, and the English in Ame- 
rica, had commenced. Reinforcements, by poth parties, to 
strike the decisive blow most fatally, were effected. The cri- 
sis was an eventful one. The inhabitants of the frontiers 
were all in a panic — the Indians, true to their character, when 
enemies, struck whenever an opportunity presented itself — 
neither sex nor age was spared. Sometime in the latter part 
of June, 1755, they killed thirteen men, women and children, 
about four miles from Wills' creek, on the borders of Penn- 

7 



74 INTRODUCTION. 

sylvania. The following extract of a letter is submitted in 
proof: — 

Shippensburs, 30 June, 1755. 
William Allen, Esq. 
Dear Cousin : 

[Mr. Shippen speaking of the recovery of his son Joseph, who had 
been dangerously ill] — adds — " But the reason of my sending this let- 
ter is to acquaint you that Mr. Joseph Simons is just come from the 
Little Meadows, and assures me that last Monday, the Indians killed 
six men, women and children ; and on Wednesday killed seven more. 
He saw one man who made his escape, who was shot in the mouth 
and thigh, and a boy was knocked down and thought to be dead, 
and scalped, and afterwards coming to himself and ran into the Po- 
tomack, and in a short time called aloud for assistance. The boy 
saw the Indian scalping his mother as he was coming to. [These 
were killed four miles from Wills' creek, i. d. r.] 

The General (Braddock) it is supposed is by this time a few miles 
beyond the Great Meadows. He has but thirty days provisions with 
him: his dependance is upon having continental supplies from this 
Province; but there is still a good quantity at Wills' creek; but I 
doubt without a guard of a hundred men at least, they will be inter- 
cepted on the road. 

Captain Hogg, with his company, is with the Road-cutters ; and 
while Mr. Burd was absent last ^week riding about Conococheague 
with me, last Monday, to get wagons to carry provisions to feed the 
men and the soldiers ; for those people had but a day and a half pro- 
vision when he came away. I say, in his absence, there were four- 
teen of Hogg's men deserted, as Justice Allison, of Lancaster coun- 
ty says, and more were expected to go every day — a melancholy 
story, indeed. 

I am exceedingly sorry that it has not been practicable to send 
two hundred fusees for the Road-cutters. John Potter, the sheriff, 
tells me that his son and a few more ought to set off to-morrow 
with forty head of cattle to support the Road-cutters and Captain 
Hogg's men ; but that the people are so alarmed about the Indians that 
he cannot think it safe to venture them out unless he can intercede 
with twenty or thirty of his neighbors to guard them. If money could 
be raised to pay a hundred men for three months, it would be a 
most extraordinary thing. A subscription might do a great deal to- 
wards it. It is important to keep the cutters in good spirits ; for if 
Capt. Hogg's men should incline to desert, I am apprehensive, that 
unless Mr. Burd's workmen can be put in a posture of defence, they 
will run away homewards. But I hope this can be prevented. 

Edward Shippen. 

The following letter from John Harris to Conrad Weiser, 
dated June 30, 1754, at Paxton, confirms the above, as to 
those murdered at Wills creek. 

" I am sorry thai I have occasion to inform you of such melan- 
choly news. On Monday, the 23d inst. were killed and scalped three 



INTRODUCTION» 75 

persons by Indians, near our fort, at Wills creek. And within three 
days after, upwards of twenty of our inhabitants have been killed or 
taken, near Fort Cumberland. William Chesney is come home, who 
saw a little boy in our fort who was scalped last week, and likely lo 
iive. In short, there seems to be nothing but desolation on the Poto- 
mac. There was scarce an hour since the army marched, but news of 
alarm comtfs down the road, that it will probably be stopped by the en- 
emy ; one soldier was fired upon and killed. Our own Indians are 
strongly suspected, for several reasons : first, their deserting our ar- 
my, all except about six men; and also, by English goods or arras 
fouud.on one Indian killed last week by one Williams, which articles 
were delivered but lately out of our forts to Indians then there. I think 
it is advisable that you should use eudeavors to find out if our Indians 
are concerned, so that we might, with the least delay, lay some scheme 
for revenge before they find lime to use us as they have done our fel- 
low subjects and acquaintances. We need men to be directly raised 
for our defence, and to guard provisions, &c., to our camp and army." 

In June, 1755, the Indians had waylaid James Smith and 
another man in company with him, in the northwestern part 
of Cumberland county, (now Bedford,) shot his partner, took 
him captive — carried him to Fort Duquesne — after ending 
many hardships for several years, he was exchanged with 
other prisoners — returned home in 1760. 

Smith afterwards published an interesting narrative of his 
captivity, in which he notices the murder of his companion 
and his abduction, as follows : 

" In May, 1755, the province of Pennsylvania, agreed to 
send out three himdred men, in order to cut a wagon road 
from Fort Loudon, to join Braddock's road, near the Turkey 
Foot, or three forks of Youghiogeny. My brother-in-law, 
William Smith, Esq., of Conococheague, was appointed com- 
missioner, to have the oversight of these road-cutters. 

Though I was at that time only eighteen years of age, I 
had fallen violently in love with a young lady, whom I ap- 
prehended was possessed of a large share of both beauty and 
virtue; — but being born between Venus and Mars, I conclud- 
ed I must also leave my dear fair one, and go out with this 
company of road-cutters, to see the event ot this campaign; 
but still expecting that some time in the course of this sum- 
mer, I should again return to the arms of my beloved. 

We went on with the road, without interruption, until near 
the Allegheny mountain; when I was sent back, in order to 
hurry up some provision wagons that were on the way after 
us. I proceeded down the road as far as the crossings of Ju- 
niata, where, finding the wagons were coming on as fast as 



76 



INTRODUCTION. 



possible, I returned up the road again towards the Allegheny 
mountain, in company with one Arnold Vigoras. About four 
or five miles above Bedford, three Indians had made a blind 
of bushes, stuck in the ground, as though they grew natur- 
ally, where they concealed themselves, about fifteen yards 
from the road. When we came opposite to them, they fired 
upon us, at this short distance, and killed my fellow travel- 
ler, yet their bullets did not touch me ; but my horse making 
a violent start, threw me, and the Indians immediately ran 
up, and took me prisoner. The one that laid hold on me was a 
Canasatauga, the other two were Delawares. One of them 
could speak English, and asked me if there were any more 
white men coming after ? I told them not any near, that I 
knew of. Two of these Indians stood by me whilst the other 
scalped my comrade : they then set off and ran at a smart 
rate, through the woods, for about fifteen miles, and that 
night we slept on the Allegheny mountain, without fire." 

To protect themselves against the incursions of the Indians 
and consequent destruction of the settlements, the inhabitants, 
encouraged by government, began to erect forts and block- 
houses in various parts along the frontiers — now within the 
limits of Bedford, Franklin, Cumberland and Dauphin coun- 
ties. Some time in July, 1755, preparations were made to 
erect a fort in Shippensburg, which was completed in the fall 
of the same year. 

Charles Swain wrote to Governor Morris, from Shippens- 
burg, July 30th, 1755, and mentioned that a piece of ground 
had been pitched on to erect a fort upon. 

"I have first to inform you that two Indians came here, one named 
Chiregea, and the other called the Song, to see if they could have any 
assistance and provision, is their message. They have left behind five 
Wyandots, and two others of the Five Nations, who did not choose to 
come along with these, who were to return to them in two days, to the 
place where they left them, fourteen or fifteen miies beyond the Hills 
of Tuscarora Path. I have given them entertainment, also a pass, and 
forwarded them to Conrad Weiser. I sent enclosed an affidavit from 
three persons come from the road. A defeat, I believe is beyond doubt. 
Mr. Burd is gone to Fort Cumberland. I suppose the people will now 
come fast into these parts ; and shall use all expedition in forwarding 
a Fort. I have pitched on a piece of ground of Mr. Shippen's, and the 
timber about here is all his, therefore should be glad he was to write 
about it— if your Honor thought proper, that there may be no after- 
claps on his part." 

Shortly after Gen, E. Braddock's defeat, July 9, 1755, 



INTRODUCTION. ^ 

the French and their Indian allies, encourged by their suc- 
cess, pushed their incursions into the interior parts of the 
frontier settlenaents — into York, Cumberland, Lancaster, 
Berks and Northampton counties. These counties were 
scenes of murder, burning of houses, &c., for a period of 
about ten years. The apprehensions of those who feared the 
direful consequences of Braddock's defeat were sadly realized. 

The massacres which followed this defeat were horrible 
beyond description. Shinges* and Captain Jacobs were sup- 
posed to have been the principal instigators of them, and a 
reward ot seven hundred dollars was offered for their heads. 
It was at this period, that the dead bodies of some of the 
murdered and mangled were sent from the frontiers to Phila- 
delphia, and hauled about the streets, to inflame the people 
against the Indians, and also against the Quakers, to whose 
mild forbearance was attributed a laxity in sending out troops. 
The mob surrounded the house of Assembly, having placed 
the dead bodies at its entrance, and demanded immediate suc- 
cor. At this time the above reward was offered. — Drake'g 
Ind. His. V. 22. 

The inhabitants, as they had done the previous years, again 
renewed their petitions to government ; and also united to 
resist, if possible, the French and their savage 'allies, as will 
appear from the following : 

The humble petition of the subscribers, inhabitants of Lurgan town- 
ship, in Cumberland county, amicably unite as a conicany, under the 
care and command of Mr. Alexander Culbertson: — Shmveth, that inas- 
much as we dwell upon the frontiers our case is lamentably dangerous, 
we being in such imminent peril of being inhumanly butchered by our 
savage neighbors, whose tender mercies are cruelty ; and if they should 
come upon us now, we are naked and defenceless; being in a "reat 
measure destitute of arms and ammunition. What would be the event! 

* King Shingas, as he was called by the whites, but whose proper 
name was 8/u?igasi-, which is interpreted, Bogmcadow, was the greatest 
Delaware warrior at that time. Hecke welder, who knew him person- 
ally, says, Were his war exploits all on record, they would form an in- 
teresting document, though a shocking one. Conococheague, Bigboor. 
Shearman's valley and other settlements along the frontier, felt his 
strong arm sufBciently, that he was a bloody xmrrior, — cruel his treat- 
ment, relentless his fury. His person was small, but in point of cour- 
age and activity, savage prowess, he was said to have never been ex- 
ceeded by any one. In 1753, when Washington was on his expedition 
to the French on the Ohio, (Allegheny) — Shingas — where Pittsbur*' 
now is, but in 1756— had his house at Kittaning. See Bedford country, 
'irticle Fort Littleton, and Armstrong letter there inserted 



78 INTRODUCTION. 

And now it is the only kind Providence of God that restrains them. And 
in these sad and lamenlabie circumstances, we betake ourselves to your 
Honor's compassion, as to a kind and lamentable Father of whose ten- 
der concern for us we are well assured. 

May it therefore please your Honor, in your great wisdom and good- 
ness, to commiserate our unhappy case, and strengthen our hands with 
such a quantity of arms and ammunition, and upon such terms as your 
Honor sees fit, and your dependant petitioners, as in duty bound, shall 
ever pray. — August 1, 1755. 

Plans were now devised for the defence of the frontiers. 
The following was one, which the compiler copied from the 
original, found among some papers and letters in the Secreta- 
ry's office at Harrisburg. The paper is without date. It is 
headed " ^ plan for the defence of the Frontier of Cum- 
berland county from Philip Davies' to Shippenshurg* — 
{Miscel. papers 85.) 

Let one company cover from Philip Davies to Thomas Waddel's. 
And as John McDowell's mill is at the most important pass, most ex- 
posed to danger, has a fort already made about it, and there provisions 
may be most easily had; for these reasons let the chief quarters be 
there. Let five men be constantly at Philip Davies's, William Mar- 
shall's and Thomas Waddle's, who shall be relieved every day by the 
patrolling guards. Let ten men be sent early every morning from the 
chief quarters to Thomas Waddle's, and ten return from thence in the 
evening. Likewise ten men sent from the chief quarters to the other 
extremity daily, to go by William Marshall's to Philip Davies's, and 
return the same way in the afternoon. By this plan the whole bounds 
will be patrolled twice everyday, — a watch will be constantly kept at 
four most important places, and there will be every night forty-five men 
at the chief quarters ready for any exigency. 

Another company may cover as much more of the Frontier, begin- 
ning where the first ends and reach towards, and back of Shippens- 
hurg, by fixing a chief quarter in some convenient place about the mid- 
dle of said bounds, and from thence patrolling the ground twice a day, 
and keeping watches at the most proper places as above ; one of which 
watches may be constantly at Mr. Armstrong's, and another at a pro- 
per place at the other extremity. 

This plan supposes each of the companies to consist of sixty men in 
all, as fewer cannot so patrol, keep watch, and have any force together 
to answer such exigencies as may occur. These may be furnished by 
deducting seventeen out of each of the four Forts back of our frontier; 
this leaves sixty in each fort, and makes up a new company of sixty 
men, and eight to be added to Captain Potter's company. 

Governor Robert Morris, in his message of July 24, 1755, 
to the Assembly, has the following language in relation to 

• See Appendix C, — Article" Proposal for the defence of the Fron- 
tiers by Major Burd. 



INTRODUCTION. 79 

Braddock's defeat : " This unfortunate and unexpected 
change in our affairs deeply affect every one of his majesty'^ 
colonies, but none of them in so sensible a manner as this 
province, while having no militia, is thereby left exposed to 
the tiruel incursion of the French and barbarous Indians, who 
delight in shedding human blood, and who make no distinc- 
tion as to age or sex — as to those that are armed against 
them, or such as they can surprise in their peaceful habita- 
tions — all are alike the objects of their cruelty — slaughter- 
ing the tender infant, and frightened mother, with equal joy 
and fierceness. To such enemies, spurred by the native cru- 
elty of their tempers, encouraged by their late success, and 
having now no army to fear, are the inhabitants of this pro- 
vince exposed ; and by such must we now expect to be over- 
run, if we do not immediately prepare for our own defence ; 
nor ought we to content ourselves with this, but resolve to 
drive to and confine the French to their own just limits." — 
Votes of Assem. iv. 416. 

Scaice three months after this disastrous defeat, we find 
the barbarous savages, engaged in murdering the whites and 
setting fire to their houses, on the west side of Susquehanna, 
in Cumberland county, now Union ; for on the fifteenth of 
October, 1755, a party of Indians fell upon the inhabitants 
on Mahahany (or Penn's) creek, that runs into the river Sus- 
quehannah, about five miles lower than the Great Fork made 
by the juncture of the two main branches of the Susquehan- 
nah, killed and carried off about twenty-five persons, and 
burnt and destroyed their buildings and improvements, and 
the whole settlement was deserted." — Pov. Reeds. N. 340. 

The inhabitants on Penn's creek sent in the following petition to 
Governor Morris: "We, the subscribers, near the mouth of Penn's 
creek, ou the west side of the Susquehanna, humbly show, that on or 
about the 16ih October, 17S5, the enemy came down upon said creek, 
killed, scalped and carried away all the men, women and children, 
amounting totwenty-five in number: and wounded 1 man.who fortunate- 
1/ made his escape, and brought us the news, whereupon the subscri- 
bers went out and buried the dead, whom we found most barbatously 
murdered and scalped. 

We found but thirteen, who were men and elderly women. The chil- 
dren, we suppose to be carried away prisoners. The house where we 
suppose they finished their murder, we found burnt up; the man of it, 
named Jacob King, a Swisser, lying just by it. He lay on his back, 
barbarously burnt, and two tomahawks sticking in his forehead : one 
of those marked newly with W. D. We have sent them to your Honor, 



80 INTRODUCTION. 

The terror of which, has driven away almost all the back inhabitants, 
except the subscribers, with a few more who are willing to stay and 
defend the land ; but as we are not at all able to defend it for the want 
of guns and ammunition, and few in numbers, so that without assist- 
ance, we must flee and leave the country to the mercy of the enemy. 

We, therefore, desire it, that your Honor would take the same into 
consideration, and order some speedy relief for the safety of these back 
settlements, and be pleased to give us speedy orders what to do. 

George Gliwell George Anchmudy John McCahon Abraham Souer- 
kill Edmund Matthews Mark Curry William Doran Dennis Mucklehen- 
ny John Young John Simmons George Snabble George Aberhearl Da- 
niel Braugh George Lynn and Golfried Fryer. — Prov. Rec. N, p. 242-3. 

Jacob King alias Jacob Le Roy, mentioned in the above 
petition, had only lately arrived in the country. At the time 
he was murdered, his daughter Anne Mary Le Roy and some 
others were made prisoners, and taken to Kittaning, where 
she was kept a captive ior about four years. She arrived at 
Philadelphia, May 6th 1759. A narrative of her abduction 
and captivity, and that of Barbara Leininger was published 
by Peter Miller, in 1759.—Sauer's Zeitung. 

On the 23d of October, 1755, foty-six of the inhabitants 
on Susquehanna, about Harris' Ferry, went to Shamokin, to 
enquire of the Indians there, who they were, that had so cru- 
elly fallen upon and ruined the settlement on Mahahony 
creek ; on their return from Shamokin, they were fired upon 
by some Indians who lay in ambush, and four were killed, 
four drowned, and the rest put to flight ; on which all the 
settlements between Shamokin and Hunter's mill (formerly 
Chamber's) for the space of fifty miles, were deserted. — 
Prov. Rec. N. 340. 

The following letters from John Harris, and other gentle- 
men, give all the particulars, touching the above : 

Paxton, October 20, 1755. 
^__May it please your Honor — 

I was informed last night, by a person that came down our river, that 
tliere was a Dutch (German) woman, who made her escape to George 
Gabriel's, and informs us that last Friday evening, on her way home 
from this settlement, on Mahahony, or Penn's creek, where her family 
lived, she called at a neighbor's house, and saw two persons lying by 
the door of said house, murdered and scalped; and there were some 
Dutch (German) families that lived near their places, immediately left, 
not thinking it safe to stay any longer. It is the opinion of the people 
up the river, that the families on Penn's creek being scattered, that but 
few in number are killed or carried otT, except the above said woman, 
the certainty of which will soon be known, as there are some men gone 
out to bury the dead. 



INTRODUCTION. 81 

By report, this evening, I was likewise informed by the belt of wam- 
pum, and these Indians here, there were seen, near Shamokin, about 
six days ago, two French Indians of the Canawago tribe. I, a little 
doubted the truth of the report at first; but the Indians have seemed so 
afraid, that they despatched messengers, immediately, to the mountains, 
above my house, to bring in some of their women that were gathering 
chestnuts, for fear of their being killed. 

By a person just arrived down our river, brought information of two 
men being murdered within five miles of Geo. Gabriel's, four women 
carried off, and there is one man wounded in three places, who escaped 
to Gabriel's, and it is imagined that all the inhabitants on Penn's creek 
and Little Mahahony, are killed or carried off, as most of them live 
much higher up, where the first murder was discovered. The Indian 
warriors here send you these two strings of while wampum, and the 
women the black one, both requesting that you would lay by all your 
council pipes, immediately, and open all your eyes and ears and view 
your slain people in this land, and to put a stop to it immediately, and 
come to this place to our assistance without any delay; and the belt of 
wampum particularly mentions that the proprietors and your honor 
would immediately act in defence of their country, as the old chain of 
friendship now is broken by several nations of Indians, and it seems to 
be such as they never expected to see or hear of. Any delay on our 
acting vigorously now at this time, would be the loss of all Indian in- 
terest, and perhaps our ruin in these parts 

I am your honor's 

Most obedient servant, 

John Harris. 

P. S. I shall endeavor to get a number of my neighbors to go out as 
far as the murder has been committed ; and perhaps to Shamokin, to 
know th<* minds of the Indians, and their opinions of these times, and 
to get what intelligence I can from them, and to encourage some of 
their young men to scout about, back of the frontiers, to give us notice 
of the enemy's approach, if possible, at any time hereafter. I heartily 
wish your honor and the assembly, would please to agree on some me- 
thod at this time towards protecting this province, as this part of it 
seems actually in danger now; for should but a company of Indians 
come and murder, but a few families hereabouts, which is daily ex- 
pected, the situation we are in would oblige numbers to abandon their 
plantations, and our cattle and provisions, which we have a plenty of, 
must then fall a prey to the enemy. 

Our Indians here seem much discouraged at the large number of fa- 
milies passing here, every day, on account of the late murders on the 
Pctomack, and will be much more so, if it should happen to be our 
case. There were two Indian women set out from here two days ago, 
for the Ohio, to bring some of their relations (as they say) down here ; 
and should the French, or their Indians hear by them, as they will be 
enquiring for news, the effect that their late murders has had among 
our inhabitants, it will be a matter of encouragement to them. 
I conclude, your honor's 

Most obedient and most humble servant, 

John Harris. 



82 INTRODUCTION. 

Paxton, October 28, 1755, 
May it please your Honor (Gov. Morris.) 

This is to acquaint you, that on the 24th of October, I arrived at 
Shamokin, in order to protect our frontiers up that way, till they might 
make their escape from their cruel enemies ; and learn the best intelli- 
gence I could. 

The Indians on the west branch of the Susquehannah, certainly killed 
our inhabitants on Penn's creek; and there are a hatchet and two En- 
glish scalps sent by them up the North branch, to desire them to strike 
with them, if they are men. 

The Indians are all assembling themselves at Shamokin, to counsel ; 
a large body of them was there four days ago. I cannot learn their in- 
tentions ; but seems Andrew Montour and Moua-ca-too-tha are to bring 
down the news from them. There is not a sufficient number of them 
to oppose the enemy; and, perhaps, they will join the enemy against 
us. There is no dependance on Indians ; and we are in imminent 
danger. 

I got certain information from Andrew Montour and others, that there 
is a body of Fcfnch with fifteen bundled Indians coming upon, us, Picks, 
Ottaways, Orandox, Delawares, Shawanese, and a number of the Six 
Nations; and are now, not many days march from this Province and 
Virginia, which are appointed to be attacked; at the same time, some of 
the Shamokin Indians seem friendly, and others appear like enemies. 

Montour knew many days ago of the eneaiy being on their march 
against us, before he informed ; for which I said as much to him, as I 
thought prudent, considering the place I was in. 

On the 25th inst., on my return with about forty more, we were at- 
tacked by about twenty or thirty Indians — received their fire, and about 
fifteen of our men and myself took to the trees, attacked the villains, 
killed four of them on the spot, and lost but three more — retreating 
about half a mile through woods, and crossing the Susquehannah, one 
of whom was shot off an horse riding behind myself, through the river. 
My horse was wounded, and failing in the river, I was obliged to quit 
him and swim part of the way. 

Four or five of our men were drowned crossing the river. I hope 
our journey, though with fatigue, and loss of our substance, and some 
of our lives, will be of service to our country, by discovering our ene- 
my, who will be our ruin, if not timely prevented. 
• I just now received information that there was a French officer, sup- 
posed captain, with a party of Shawanese, Delawares, &c., within six 
miles of Shamokin, ten days ago ; and no doubt intends to take pos- 
session of it, which will be a dreadful consequence to us, if suffered. — 
Therefore, I thought proper to despatch this message to inform your 
Honor. The Indians here I hope, your Honor, will be pleased to cause 
them to remove to some place, as I do like their company ; and as the 
men of those here were not against us, yet did them no harm ; or else 
I would have them all cut ofl^. Belt (Indian so called) promised at 
Shamokin, to send out spies to view the enemy, and upon hearing of 
our skirmishes. Old Belt was in a rage — gathered up thirty Indians im- 
mediately and went in pursuit of the enemy, as I am this day informed. 
I expect Montour and Mona-ca-thoo-tha down here this week, with 



INTRODUCTION. 83 

the determination of their Shamokin council. The inhabitants are 
abandoning their plantations, and we are in a dreadful situation. 

I am &c., John Harris.* 

P. S. The night ensuing our attack, the Indians burnt all George 
Gabriel's houses — danced around them. 

The Indians alluded to by Mr. Harris, had been at Har- 
ris' Ferry for some months, as is evident from the following 
letter addressed to Governor Morris : 

Harris' Ferht, July 9th, at 11 o'clock, 1755. 

Honored Sir: According to your order, I came to this place last 
Monday, and found the Indian's writins; for me. Yesterday, I distributed 
about two hundred bushels of meal among them ; after that was over, 
they required how things stood as to the war. I told them what had 
happened to some of the back inhabitants ; and that the French Indians 
were like to do a great deal of mischief. They seemed to be very much 
concerned. There were about thirty of them, and of which number 
nine offered themselves to go with me, or my son Sammy, to Wills' 
creek, and serve as outscouts against the French and their Indians, and 
to protect the poor people settled about those parts ; and I was agreed 
that they should meet me, or my son, at this place, in ten days hence ; 
and that in the meantime, I was to obtain your Honor's leave, and a 
proper pass. This morning Captain Glazier's express from the east 
arrived at this place, with the agreeable news of the defeat of ihe 
French at Nova Scotia, and the taking of the French men-of-war, by 
Admiral Boscawen. 

I read and explained the printed paper to the Indians, and they ex- 
pressed a good deal of satisfaction and pleasure with the news. Capt. 
Glazier gave me to understand that he should be very glad if some of 
these Indians would accompany him to the English camp with the de- 
spatches he had for the general, in this dangerous time. I proposed it 
to the Indians ; they approved of the thing, but having intelligence of 
your Honor's coming up, and that you would be in Lancaster this day, 
they would hear and receive your approbation; and they have accord- 
ingly desired me to stay with them at this place, till your Honor's ar- 
rival, which I have promised to do, and have sent the bearer here of 
express to let your Honor know of this and to receive lurther orders. 

I am sir. 
Your very obedient and humble servant. 
Corrad Weiser. 

Heidelberg, July 21st, 1755. 
Honored Sir: 

I must inform you that on the same day you left John Harris's, about 
twenty-five Indian women and children arrived from Achwick, (Augh- 
wick) only one old man with them. They say that it was agreed upon 
when their husbands and young men went to the English army, under 
General Braddock, they should come down to the inhabited parts, 
where they should be provided for ; and as they had nobody to hunt for 

* Prov. Rec. N. 247-8. 



84 



INTRODUCTION. 



them, ihey could not live without being somehow assisted by their bre- 
thren, the English; and that a good many more were on their way 
coming down. 

I bought 500 weight of flour and gave it to them ; and gave orders to 
John Harris that when the rest arrived to give them some flour also, 
till the Governor's pleasure should be known, which I desire your ho- 
nor will signify to me or John Harris, as soon as possible. 

Jonathan and John Shickalamy* will stay among the inhabitants 
till they hear from your honor concerning the English army and Gen. 
Braddock. 

Our people are very malicious against our Indians; they curse and 
damn them to their faces, and say, "Must we feed you, and your hus- 
bands fight in the meantime for the French T 

I am, your honor's 
obedient and humble servant, 

Conrad Weiser. 

In the month of August 1755, Conrad Weiser,. at the re- 
quest of Gov. Morris, went to Harris' Ferry, when he found 
that Scarroyady, and a good many more Indians had gone 
up the river to settle about Shamokin, or at least to hunt 
thereabouts during the winter of 1755 and '56. 

Tohashwughtonie, commonly called "Belt" or "Old Belt," 
was at Harris' Ferry, with Seneca George, and five or six 
more elderly men, and others to the number of fifty or sixty 
including women and children. Weiser brought with him a 
wagon load of flour to supply the w^ants of the Indians.! 

I, and Thomas Foster, Esq., Mrs. Harris, and Mr. McKee, with up- 
wards of forty men, went up the 2nd inst., (October 1755,) to Captain 
McKee, at New Providence, in order to bury the dead, lately murdered 
on Mahahany creek ; but understanding the corpse were buried, we 
then determined to return immediately home. But being urged by John 
Sekalamy, and the Old Belt, to go up to see the Indians at Shamokin, 
and know their minds, we went on the 24ih, and staid there all night— 
and in the night, I heard some Delawares talking — about twelve in 
number — to this purpose : "What are the English come here for ?" 
Says another : " To kill us, I suppose ; can we then send off some of 
our nimble young men to give our friends notice that can soon be 
here 1" They soon after sang the war song, and four Indians went 
off", in two canoes, well armed — the one canoe went down the river, and 
the other across. 

On the morning of the 25th, we took our leave of the Indians and 
set off homewards, and were advised to go down the east side of the 
river, but fearing that a snare might be laid on that side, we marched 

• Shickalamy — this name is variously spelled ; Shikellimus, the fa- 
ther of these sons died at Shamokin in 1749; and I find that Golden 
mentions him under the names of Shickalamy, Shicalamy, Shick 
Calamy. 

t August 8th 1755, Prov. Rec. N. 213. 



INTRODUCTION. 85 

off peaceably, on the west side, having behaved in the most civil and 
friendly manner towards them while with them ; and when we came to 
the mouth of the Mahahany creek, we were fired on by a good number 
of Indians that lay among the bushes; on which we were obliged to 
retreat, with the loss of several men; the particutar number I cannot 
exactly mention ; but I am positive that I saw four fall, and one man 
struck with a tomahawk, on the head, in his flight across the river. As 
I understand the Delaware tongue, I heard several of the Indians that 
were engaged against us, speak a good many words, in that tongue, 
during the action. 

Adam Tehhasce. 

The above declaration was attested by the author's voluntary qualifi- 
cation, no magistrate being present ; at Paxton, this 26th October, 1755, 
before us : 

John Elder, Thomas McArthur, Michael Graham, Alex. McClure, Mi- 
chael Teass, William Harris, Thomas Black, Samuel Lenes, Samuel 
Pearson, William McClure, 

N. B. Of all our people that were in the action, there are but nine 
that are yet returned. 

TT J ^. Readi^^g, October 22, 1755. 

Honored Sir: 

I take this opportunity to inform you, that I received news from 
tehamokin, and that six families have been murdered on John Penn's 
creek, on the west side of the Susquehannah ; about four miles from 
the river, several people have been found scalped, and twenty-eight or 
more missing. The people are in great consternation, and are comincr 
down, leaving their plantations and corn behind them. Two of my 
sons are gone up to help down one of their cousins with his family. 

1 hear of more that will defend themselves ; but George Gabriel 

the people down here seem to be for ourselves, and says : The Indians 
will never come this side the Susquehannah river ; but I fear they will, 
since they meet with no opposition anv where. I do not doubt, your 
Honor has heard of this molancholy affair before now, by the way of 
Lancaster, perhaps more particularly; yet, I thought it my duty to in- 
form you of It ; and when my sons come back, I will write again, if 
they bring any thing particular. 

t>, ^ 5-^^^ u^^"""* ?°^!V,"^ °^ '^^ ^^^^^^"5 ^hat have gone up to fight against 
the French on the Ohio ; their going, 1 fear, has been occasion of this 
murder. I have nothing more to add, but am, Honored Sir, 
Your very humble servant, 

CoNHAB WeISBR. 

Heidelberg, October 26, at 11 o'clock, Sunday night, 1755. 
Mr. James Read ; Loving Friend : 

About one hour ago, I received the news of the enemy having 
crossed the Susquehannah, and killed a great many people, from 
Thomas McKee's down to Hunter's mills. y ^ f ' 

Mr. Elder, the minister at Paxton, wrote to another Presbyterian min- 
ister, in the neighborhood of Adam Reed, Esq. The people were then 

8 



86 INTRODUCTION. 

in a meeting, and immediately designed to get themselves in readiness, 
to oppose the enemy, and lend assistance to their neighbors. 

Mr. Reed sent down to Tulpehocken — and two men, one that came 
from Mr. Reed's, are just now gone, who brought in the melancholy 
news. I have sent out to alarm the townships in this neighborhood, 
and to meet me early in the morning, at Peter Spicker's, to consult to- 
gether what to do, and to make preparations, to stand the enemy, with 
the assistance of the Most High. 

I wrote you this, that you may have time to consult with Mr. Seelj, 
and other well-wishers of the people, in order to defend your lives and 
others. For God's sake let us stand together, and do what we can, and 
trust to the hand of Providence — perhaps, we must, in this neighbor- 
hood, come to Reading; but I will send armed men to Susquehannah, 
or as far as they can go for intelligence. 

Pray let Sammy have a copy of this, or this draft for his Honor, the 
Governor. I have sent him, about three hours ago express to Phila- 
delphia, and he lodges at my son Peter's. Despatch him as early as 
you can. I pray, beware of confusion, be calm, you and Mr. Seely, and 
act the part of fathers of the people. I know you are both able ; but 
excuse me for giving you this caution — time requires it.* 

I am dear sir, your very good friend and 

Humble servant, 

Conrad Weiseb. 

Paxtost, October, 28, 1755. 
To Richard Peters : 

Sir: I received your letter, and shall observe the contents. There 
is melancholy news, concerning which, I have written to his Honor, the 
Governor. If there were encouragement for 1000 or 1500 men to meet 
the enemy and build a fort some place up Susquehanna, I imagine a 
number of men will go at their own expense to assist. 

I am sir, your most humble servant, 

John Harris. 

P. S. I shall endeavor to keep out a few Mohawks, that are here, as 
spies. The Belt promised to send out some ; but it was our River In- 
dians, and some scouts from the French army, attacked us at Mr. Penn's 
creek. 

Yours, J. H. 

Note. — Heckewelder, in his Historical Account of the Indians, when 
speaking of the Indians' manner of surprising their enemies, relates a 
striking annecdote by way of exemplification of the Indians' sagacity, 
as well as veracity ; the subject of which, has some relation to massa- 
cre, mentioned above. 

"In the beginning, says he, of the summer of the year 1755, a most 
atrocious and shocking murder was unexpectedly committed by a par- 
ly of Indians, on fourteen white settlers within five or six miles of Sha- 
mokin. The surviving whites, in their rage, determined to take their 
revenge by murdering a Delaware Indian who happened to be in those 

• Provincial Records, N. p. 244-5. 



INTRODUCTION. 87 

parts, and was far from thinking himself in danger. He was a great 
friend to the whites, was loved and esteemed by them, and in testimony 
of their regard, had received from them the name of Luke Holland, by 
which he was generally known. This Indian, satisfied that his nature 
was incapable of committing such a foul murder in a time of profound 
peace, told the enraged selllers, that he was sure that the Delawares 
were not in any manner concerned in it, and that it was the act of some 
wicked Mingoes or Iroquois, whose custom it was to involve other na- 
tions in wars with each other by clandestinely committing murders, so 
that they might be laid to the charge of others than themselves. But 
all his representations were vain; he could not convince exasperated 
men whose minds were fully bent upon revenge. At last, ha offered 
that if they would give him a party to accompany him, he would go 
with them in quest of the murderers, and was sure he could discover 
ihem by the prints of their feet and other marks well known to him, by 
which he would convince them that the real perpetrators of the crime 
belonged to the Six Nations. His proposal was accepted, he marched 
at the head of a party of whites and led them into the tracks. They 
soon found themselves in the most rocky parts of the mountain, where 
not one of those who accompanied him was able to discover a single 
track, nor would they believe that ever a man had trodden on this 
ground, as they had to jump over a number of crevices between the 
rocks, and in some instances to crawl over them. Now they began to 
believe that the Indian had led them across those rugged mountains in 
order to give the enemy time to escape, and threathened him with in- 
stant death the moment they should be fully convinced of the fraud. — 
The Indian true to his promise would take pains to make them perceive 
that an enemy had passed along the places through which he was lead- 
ing them; here he would show them that the moss on the rock had been 
trodden down by the weight of a human foot, then that it had been torn 
and dragged forward from its place ; further he would point out to 
them that pebbles or small stones on the rocks had been removed from 
their beds by the foot hitting against them, that dry sticks by being trod- 
den upon were broken, and even that in a particular place, an Indian's 
blanket had dragged over the rocks, and removed or loosened the leaves 
lying there, so that they lay no more flat, as in other places ; all which 
the Indian could perceive as he walked along, without ever stopping. — 
At last arriving at the foot of the mountain on soft ground, where the 
tracks were deep, he found out the enemy were eight in number, and 
from the freshness of the foot prints, he concluded that they must be 
encamped at no great distance. This proved to be the exact truth ; for,, 
after gaining the eminence on the other side of the valley, the Indians 
were seen encamped, some having already lain down to sleep, while 
others were drawing off their leggings for the same purpose, and the 
scalps they had taken were hanged up to dry. " See!" said Luke Hol- 
land to his astonished companions, " there is the enemy ! not of any 
nation, but Mingoes, as I truly tell you. They are in our power; in 
less than half an hour they will all be fast asleep. We need not fire 
a gun, but go up and tomahawk them. We are nearly two to one and 
need apprehend no danger. Come on, and you will now have your 
iull revenge '." But the whites, overcom.e with fear, did not choose to 
follow the Indian's advice, and urged him to take them back by the 
Mearest and best way, which he did, and when they arrived at home 



88 INTRODUCTION. 

late at night, they reported the number of the Iroquois to have been so 
great, that they durst not venture to attack them. 

" This account, says Heckeweidcr, is faithfully given as I received it 
from Luke Holland himself, and took it down in writing at the time." — 
Heckewelder's His. Ace. of Ind. Nations ; p. 168-70. 

The near approach of the enemy threw all, in the outer 
settlements, into consternation. Their only safety was to flee 
and leave all to the enemy. They had in vain looked, for 
some time, for effectual relief from Government. Houses 
that had been occupied ; barns that had been filled with the 
fruits of a rich and plenteous harvest ; and newly sowed 
fields, and standing corn ; and some cattle, were all aban- 
doned, by the hardy and industrious frontier settlers, expect- 
ing as they did, daily the enemy upon them. They were 
constantly in fear of being cut off. Even John Harris and 
his family were threatened with death, as stated by Mr. 
Harris himself in the following letter : 

Paxton, October 29, 1755. 
Edward Shippen, Esq. 

Sir : We expect the enemy upon us every day, and the inhabitants 
are abandoning their plantations, being greatly discouraged at the ap- 
proach of such a number of cruel savages, and no present sign of as- 
sistance. I had a certain account of fifteen hundred French and Indi- 
ans being on their march against us and Virginia, and now close upon 
our borders ; their scouts scalping our families on our frontiers daily. 
Andrew Montour and others at Shamokin, desired me to take care, that 
there was a party of forty Indians out many days, and intended to burn 
my house and destroy myself and family. I have this day cut loop 
holes in my house, and am determined to hold out to the last extremity 
if I can get some men to stand by me. But few can be had at present, 
as every one is in fear of his own family being cut off every hour. — 
Great part of the Susquehanna Indians are no doubt actually in the 
French interest, and I am informed that a French officer is expected at 
Shamokin this week with a party of Delawares and Shawanese, no 
doubt to take possession of our river. We should raise men immedi- 
ately to build a fort up the river to take possession, and to induce some 
Indians to join us. We ought also to insist on the Indians to declare 
for or against us, and as soon as we are prepared for them, we should 
bid up the scalps, and keep our woods full of our people upon the scout, 
else they will ruin our province ; for they are a dreadful enemy. I have 
sent out two Indian spies to Shamokin ; they are Mohawks. 
Sir, yours «&;c., 

John Harris. 

In the latter part of October 1755, the enemy again ap- 
peared in the neighborhood of Shamokin ; and in November 



INTRODUCTION. 89 

they committed several murders upon the whites under circum- 
stances of cruelty and barbarity. Not only those on the im- 
mediate frontier settlers, but those residing towards the inte- 
rior were kept in constant alarm, as will be seen from address 
or appeal to the inhabitants of the Province. 

Paxton, Oct. 31, 1755. From John Harris' at 12, P. M. 

To all his majesty's subjects in the Province of Pennsylvania, or 
elsewhere : Whereas, Andrew Montour, Belt of Wampum, two Mo- 
hawks, and other Indians came down this day from Shamokin,* who 
say the whole bod}'' of Indians or the greatest part of them in the 
French interest, is actually encamped on this side George Gabriel's.f 
near Susquehannah ; and that we may expect an attack in three days 
at farthest; and a French fort to be begun at Shamokin in ten days 
hence. Tho' this be the Indian report; we the subscribers, do give it 
as our advice to repair immediately to the frontiers with all our forces 
to intercept their passage into our country, and to be prepared in the 
best manner possible for the worst event. 

Witness our hands. 

James Galbreath, John Allison, Barney Hughes, Robert Wallace, 
John Harris, James Pollock, James Anderson, William Work, Patrick 
Henry. 

P. S. They positively affirm that the above named Indians discovered 
a party of the enemy at Thos. McKee's upper place on the 30th of Oc- 
tober last. 

Mona-ca-too-tha, the Belt, and other Indians, here insist upon Mr. 
Weiser's coming immediately to John Harris' with his men, and to 
council with the Indians. 

Before me, James GALBREATH.t 

While some of the savage barbarians were murdering the 
whites on the Susquehanna, others fell upon the settlers in 
the Great or Big Cove, in the western part of Cumberland, 
now Bedford county, slew many of them, fired their houses 
and barns — whom they did not slaughter, they carried away 
captive, whose subsequent sufferings were almost intolerable. 

The suffering of these unfortunate persons may be learned 
from the following — Governor Morris' message to the As- 
sembly. 

" Gentlemen : — This minute I received intelligence, that 

* Shamokin is at the forks of Susquehanna, on the east side, 
f George Gabriel's below the forks of Susquehanna, about 30 miles 
of Harris' Ferry, on the west side of the river. 
t Pror. Rec. N. 359. 



90 INTRODUCTION. 

the settlements called the Great Cove, in the county of Cum- 
berland (Bedford,) are destroyed, the houses burnt, and such 
inhabitants as would not make their escape, either slaughtered 
or made prisoners. This, and the other cruelties committed 
upon our frontiers, has so alarmed the remaining inhabitants, 
that they are quitting their habitations, and crowding into 
the more settled parts of the Province, which in their turn 
will become the frontier if some stop is not speedily put to 
the cruel ravages of their bloody invaders. In this melan- 
choly situation of our affairs, any delay may be attended 
with the most fatal consequences; I must therefore again 
most earnestly press you upon this further intelligence, to 
strengthen my hands, and enable me speedily to draw forth 
the forces of this Province against his Majesty's enemies, and 
to afford the necessary and timely assistance to the back in- 
habitants.— P^?7a. JYov. 5, 1755, Votes iv. 495. 

The following letters written by distinguished gentlemen 
at the time, give all the particulars of the murders committed 
m the Big Cove, &c. 

Falling Gprings, Sabbath morning, Nov. 2, 1775. 
To the inhabitants of the lower part of the county of Cumberland: 
Gentlemen^- 

If you intend to go to the assistance of your neighbors, you need wait 
BO longer iitir the certainty of the news. The Great Cove is destroyed. 
James Campbell left his company last night and went to the fort at Mr. 
Steel's meeting house, and there saw some of the inhabitants of the 
Great Cove who gave this account, that as they came over the Hill they 
saw their houses in flames. The messenger says that there are but one 
hundred, and that they are divided into two parts ; the one part to go 
against the Cove and the other against the Conollaways, and that there 
are two French among them. Thsy are Delawares and Shawnese. The 
part that came against the Cove are under the command of Shingas, the 
Delaware King. The people of the Cove that came off saw several men 
lying dead ; they heard the murder shout and the firing of guns, and 
saw the Indians going into their houses that they had come out of be- 
fore they left sight of the Cove. I have sent express to Marsh creek 
at the same time I send this ; so I expect there will be a good company 
there this day, and as there are but cne hundred of the enemy, I think 
It is in our power, if God permit, to put them to flight, if you turn out 
well from your parts. I understand that the West settlement is design- 
ed to go if they can get any assistance to repel them. 
All in haste, from 

Your humble servant, 

Benjamin Chambers. 



INTRODUCTION. 91 

CoiTococHEAoue, Nov. 2, 1755. 
Mr. Peters : 

Sir — This comes to bring you the melancholy news of the ruin of the 
Great Cove, which is reduced to ashes, and numbers of the inhabitants 
murdered and taken captives. On Saturday last about three of the 
clock in the afternoon, I received intelligence in conjunction with Ad- 
am Hoops, and sent immediately and appointed our neighbors to meet 
at McDowell's. On Sunday morning I was not there six minutes till 
we observed about a mile and a half distant one Matthew Patton's housa 
and barn in flames ; on which we sat off with about forty men, though 
there were at least one hundred and sixty there; our old officers hid 
themselves, for aught I knew, to save their scalps, until afternoon when 
danger was over. We went to Patton's with a seeming resolution and 
courage, hut found no Indians there, on which we advanced to a rising 
ground, where we immediately discovered another house and barn on 
fire belonging to Mesach James, about one mile up the creek from Tho- 
mas Bars. We set off directly for that place; but they had gone up 
the creek to another plantation, left by one widow Jordon the day be- 
fore ; but she had unhappily gone back that morning with a young wo- 
man, daughter to one William Clark, for some milk for her children, 
and were both taken captives ; but neither house nor barn hurt. I have 
heard of no more burnt in that valley, which makes me believe they 
have gone off for some time ; but I much fear they will return before 
we are prepared for them ; for it was three o'clock in the afternoon 
before a recruit came of about sixty men ; then we held council whe- 
ther to pursue up the valley all night or return to McDowell's ; the for- 
mer of which I and Mr. Hoops, and some others plead for, but could not 
obtain it without putting it to vote, which done, we were out-voted by 
a considerable number ; upon which I and company was left by them, 
(that night I came home) for I will not guard a man that will not fight 
when called in so imminent manner; for there were not six of these 
men that would consent to go in pursuit of the Indians. I am much 
afraid that Juniata, Tuscarora, and Sheerman's valley hath suffered; 
there are two-thirds of the inhabiiants of this valley who have already 
fled, leaving their plantations ; and without speedy succour be granted, 
I am of opinion this county will be laid desolate and be without inhab- 
itants. Last night I had a family of upwards of an hundred wotnen and 
children, who fled for succour. You can form no just idea of the dis- 
tress and distracted condition of our inhabitants, unless you saw and 
heard their cries. I am of opinion that it is not in the power of our 
representatives to meet in Assembly at this time. If our Assembly will 
give us any additional supply of arms and ammunition, the latter of 
which is most wanted. I would wish it were put into the hands of such 
persons as would go out upon scouts after the Indians, rather than for 
the supply of forts. 

I am sir your most obedient, 
very humble servant, 

John Potteb,* 
Sheriff of Cumberland county, 

• Prov, Rec. N, 262-3, 



92 INTRODUCTION. 

Carlisle, Nov. 2, 1775. 
Governor-Morris : 
Honored Sir — 
At four, this afternoon, by express from Conococheague, we are in- 
formed that yesterday about one hundred Indians were seen in the Great 
Cove, among whom was Shingas, the Delaware King; that immediately 
after discovery, as many as had notice fled, and looking back upon a 
high hill beheld their houses on fire; heard several guns fired, and the 
last shrieks of their dying neighbors. It is said the enemy divided and 
one part moved toward the Conolloways. Mr. Hamilton was here with 
sixty men from York county, when the express came, and is to march 
early to-morrow to the upper part of the country. We have sent our 
expresses every where, and intend to collect the forces of this lower 
part ; expecting the enemy at Sheerman's valley, if not nearer at hand. 
I am of the opinion that no other means than a chain of blockhouses 
along or near the south side of the Kittatinny mountain, from Susque- 
hanna to the temporary line, can secure the lives and properties even 
of the old inhabitants of this county; the new settlements being all fled, 
except those of Sheerman's valley whom, if God do not preserve, we 
fear, will sufl^er very soon. 

I am your honor's 
disconsolate humble servant, 
John Armstrong.* 

Shippensburg, 2d November, 1755. 
To Hon. Edward Shippen, Esq., at Lancaster: 

Dear and Honored Sir : 

We are in great confusion here at present — We have received ex- 
press last night that the Indians and French are in a large body in the 
Cove, a little way from William Maxwell, Esq.; and that they immedi- 
ately intend to fall down up this county. We, for these two days past, 
have been working at our Fort here, and believe shall work this day 
(Sunday). This town is full of people, they being all moving in with 
their families — five or six families in a house. We are in great want 
of arms and ammunition ; but with what v/e have we are determined to 
give the enemy as warm a reception as we can. Some of our people 
had been taken prisoners by this party, and have made their escape 
from them, and came in to us this morning. 

As our Fort goes on here with great vigor, and expect it to be finished 
in fifteen days, in which we intend to place all the women and children; 
it would be greatly encouraging, could we have reason to expect assis- 
tance from Philadelphia by private donation of Swivels, a few great 
guns, small arms and ammunition, we would send our own wagons for 
them ; and we do not doubt that upon proper application but something 
of this kind will be done for us from Philadelphia. 

We have one hundred men working at Fort Morris with heart and 
hand every day. 

Dear Sir, yours &c.. 

James Bubd. 

• Prov. Rec. N, 264, 



INTRODUCTION. 93 

CoNococHEAGUE, Nov. 3d, 1755. 
To the Hon, R. H. Morris, Esq., Gov. of Province of Pennsylvania. 

Sir: — I am sorry I have to trouble you with this melancholy and 
disagreeable news; for on Saturday an express came from Peters' town- 
ship that the inhabitants of the Great Cove were all murdered or taken 
captive, and their houses and barns all in flames— some few fled, upon 
notice brought them by a certain Patrick Burns, a captive, who had 
made his escape that very morning before this sad tragedy was done. 
Upon information, as aforesaid, John Potter and myself sent expresses 
through our neighborhood, which induced many of them to meet with 
us, at John McDowell's mill, where I, with many others, had the un- 
happy prospect to see the smoke of two houses which had been set on 
tire by the Indians ; viz: Mathew Patton's and Mesech James' houses, 
where their cattle were shot down, and horses standing bleeding, ivith 
Indian a7rotvs in them : but the Indians had fled. 

The Revd. Mr. Steel, Esq., and several others with us, to the number 
of about one hundred, went in quest of the Indians, with all the expe- 
dition imaginable, but without success. These Indians have likewise 
taken two women captives, belonging to said township. I very much 
fear Path Valley has undergone the same fate. 

George Croghan was at Aughwick, where he had a small fort and 
about thirty-five men ; but whether he has been molested or not, we 
cannot, as yet say. We, to be sure, are in as bad circumstances as 
ever any poor christians were ever in. For the cries of widowers, 
■widows, fatherless and motherless children, with many others for their 
relations, are enough to pierce the hardest of hearts. It is likewise a 
very sorrowful spectacle to see those that escaped with their lives, have 
not a mouthful to eat or bed to lie on, or clothes to cover their naked- 
ness, or keep them warm ; but all they had, consumed into ashes. — 
These deplorable circumstances cry aloud for your Honor's most wise 
consideration ; and that your Honor would take cognizance of, and 
grant what shall seem most meet. How shocking it is for the husband 
to see the wife of his bosom, have her head cut off", and the childrens' 
blood drunk like water by these bloody and cruel savages ; as we are 
informed it has been the fate of many. 

While writing, I have received intelligence by some that fled from 
the Cove, that chiefly those in the upper part of it were killed, and 
taken. One Galloway's son escaped after he saw his grand-mother 
shot down, and other relations taken prisoners. 

From some news I have had, I am apprehensive that George Croghan 
is in distress; though just now Mr. Burd, with about forty men, left my 
house, and we intend to join him to-morrow at Mr. McDowell's mill, 
with all the force we can raise, in order to see what damages have 
been done, and for his relief. 

As we have no magazines at present to supply the guards, or scouts, 
the whole weight of their maintenance lies chiefly upon a few persons. 
I pray your Honor to excuse what blunders there are by reason ol haste. 
I am with due regard, your Honor's 

Most obedient and humble servant, 

Adam Hoops. 



94 INTRODUCTION. 

CoifococHEAGUE, Nov. 6, 1755. 
May it please your Honor : 

I have sent enclosed two qualifications, one of which is Patrick 
Burns', the bearer, and a tomahawk which was found sticking in the 
breast of one David McClellan. 

The people of Path Valley are all gathered in a small fort, and ac- 
cording to the last account, were safe. The Great Cove and Canallo- 
ways are all buried to ashes, and about fifty persons killed or taken. — 
Numbers of the inhabitants of this county have moved their families, 
some to York county, some to Maryland. 

Hance Hamilton, Esq. is now at John McDowell's mill, with upwards 
of two hundred men (from York county) and two hundred from this 
county ; in all about four hundred. To-morrow we intend to go to the 
Cove and Path Valley, in order to bring what cattle and horses the In- 
dians let live. We are informed by a Delaware Indian who lives 
amongst us, that on the same day the murder was committed, he saw 
four hundred Indians in the Cove ; and we have some reason to believe 
they are about there yet. 

The people of Shearman's creek and Juniata have all come away, 
and left their horses ; and there are now about thirty miles of this 
county laid waste. I am afraid there will soon be more. 
I am your Honor's most 

Humble servant, 

Adam Hoops. 

P. S. I have just received the account of one George McSwane, who 
was taken captive about 14 days ago, and has made his escape, and 
broiight two scalps and a tomahawk with him. 

Shortly after the Indians had made hostile incursions into 
the Great Cove and commenced their devastation, Sheriff 
Potter was in Philadelphia, as appears from the following 
extract, under date of Nov. 14, 1755.— Proy. Rec. N. 289. 

Mr. Potter, the sheriff of Cumberland being in town was sent for, 
and desired to give an account of the upper part of that county in 
which the Indians had committed their late ravages; and he said that 
twenty-seven plantations were burnt and a great quantity of cattle 
killed ; that a woman 93 years of age was found lying killed with her 
breast torn off and a stake run through her body. That of 93 families 
which were settled in the two Coves and the Conolloways, 47 were 
either killed or taken, and the rest deserted. 

The names of those murdered and abducted, besides those 
already mentioned, are given in the Pennsylvania Gazette of 
Nov. 13, 1755, and are as follows : 

Elizabeth Gallway, Henry Gilson, Robert Peer, William 
Berryhill, and David McClelland were murdered. The miss- 
ing are John Martin's wife and five children; William Gall- 
way's wife and two children, and a young woman ; Charles 



INTRODUCTION. 95 

Stewart's wife and two children ; David McClelland's wife 
and two children. William Fleming and wife were taken 
prisoners. Fleming's son, and one Hicks, were killed and 
scalped. 

Paxtoit, 9th November, 1755. 
Mr. Peters, Esq. , 

I have just now received an express, informing me that out of a 
small party on guard last night in Tullyhoe's gap of the mountain, five 
were killed and two wounded. Such shockings accounts we frequently 
receive, and though we are careful to. transmit them to Philadelphia, 
and remonstrate and petition from time to time, yet to no purpose^ so 
that we seem to be given up into the hands of a merciless enemy. 

There arc within these lew weeks upwards of forty of his majesty's 
subjects massacred on the frontiers of this and Cumberland counties, 
besides a great many carried into captivity, and yet nothing but unsea- 
sonable debates between the two parties of our legislature, instead of 
uniting on some probable scheme for the protection of the province. 
What may be the end of these things, God only knows ; but I really 
fear that unless vigorous methods are speedily used, we in these back 
settlements will unavoidably fall a sacrifice, and this part of the pro- 
vince be lost. 

If I have expressed my sentiments with too much warmth, you will 
be kind enough to 'oardon me, as it proceeds from a hearty regard to 
the public good. 

Sir, your obedient servant, 

John Eldek. 

Towards the close of December 1755, the Indians commit- 
ted some murders in Shearman's valley. The following is an 
extract from the narrative of Robert Robison, as contained 
in Loudon's Narratives, pages 171-72. 

" The next I remember of was in 1755, the Woolcomber's 
family on Shearman's creek ; the whole of the inhabitants of 
the valley was gathered at Robison's, but the Woolcomber 
would not leave home, he said it was the Irish who were 
kilUng one another, these peaceable people, the Indians, 
would not hurt any person. Being at home and at dinner, 
the Indians came in, and the Quaker asked them to come and 
eat dinner; an Indian announced that he did not come to 
eat, but for scalps ; the son, a boy of fourteen or fifteen years 
of age, when he heard the Indian say so, repaired to a back 
door, and as he went out he looked back, and saw the In- 
dian strike the tomahawk into his father's head. The boy 
then ran over the creek, which was near to the house, and 



96 INTRODUCTION. 

heard the screams of his mother, sisters and brother. The 
boy came to our fort and gave us the alarm ; about forty 
went to where the murder was done and buried the dead." 

In the year 1755, says Loudon, Peter Shaver, John Sav- 
age and two other men were killed at the mouth of Shaver's 
creek, or Juniata, by the Indians. 



CHAPTER VII. 

INDIAN MASSACRES — (1756). 

Murderers committed in Tuscarora valley ---At the Canalaways, mur- 
ders committed and dwellings burnt—Widow Coxa's house burnt 
near McDowell's mill ; John and Richard Coxe, and John Craig ab- 
ducted—Several persons killed in Cumberland (Perry) county— She- 
ridan and family killed— Indians appear in Little Cove— Indians pur- 
sued in Peters' township; skirmage, several persons killed— Indians 
appear at Lycan's— Bell's adventures— McCord's forts in Conoco- 
cheague burnt— Engagement with the Indians at Sidling Hill (Bed- 
ford county;) a number of persons killed; names of killed and 
wounded— Hance Hamilton's letter, &c.— Captain Steel's letter, touch- 
ing the same ; Shippen's letter, &c.— Coves attacked, &c.— Indians 
surprise settlers in Conococheague— Indians murder in Peters' town- 
ship— Indians appear again in Shearman's valley, and commit mur- 
ders—Fort Granville taken, and several persons killed — Copy of the 
original of a paper put up at Fort Granville— Translation of— Ham- 
ilton's letter, &c.— Armstrong's letter, &c.— A family of seven persons 
murdered in Shearman's valley— Remaining inhabitants of Cumber- 
land petition government— Inhabitants of East Pennsborough, peti- 
tion—Farmers abandon their improvements— Murders committed by 
the savages on the west and east side of the Susquehanna— Gal- 
breath's letter — Reed's letters, &c. 

Regardless of the inclemencies of the winter, the Indians 
still continued committing the most shocking murdeis imagi- 
nable, all along an unprotected frontier from the Delaware 
river to the Potomac. Towards the close of January 1756, 
they perpetrated murders on the Juniata river, within a few 
miles of Fort Patterson, at the mouth of Tuscarora valley, 
opposite Mexico. 

On the 28th of January the Indians murdered a number of 
persons at the Canallaways, in Cumberland county (now 
Eedford). According to the Pe^msylvania Gazette, of Feb- 
ruary 12, 1756, " they killed and scalped James Leaton, 

9 



98 INTRODUCTION. 

Catharine Stillwell, and one of her children were killed and 
scalped, and two others carried off; one about eight, the 
other three years old. Her husband, Richard Stillwell was 
at a neighbor's house when his wife was attacked, and from 
thence got into Coom's fort. Elias Stillwell had seven horses 
and a mare carried off, one cow killed and one burnt. John 
McKenny's house was burnt, with all his household goods and 
clothing ; and what remained of three beeves and seven fat 
hogs ; he had likewise three cows killed ; and three calves 
burnt in Samuel Eaton's barn. Samuel Hicks had eleven 
cattle and a valuable mare killed. Richard Malone's house 
and barn were burnt, and two of his cattle killed. And a 
house was burnt that belonged to one Hicks, who had been 
murdered some time ago. The tracks of seven Indians and 
of a child, supposed to be Mr. Stillwell's, with those of the 
horses they carried off, were seen in a corn field, and they 
seemed to be going towards Aughwick." 

A few days after the murder had been committed and 
damages done in the Conallaways, the Indians burnt the 
house of Widow Coxe, near McDowell's mill, in Cumberland 
county (Franklin), and carried off her two sons and another 
person. John Coxe, son of widow Coxe, stated in presence 
of the Provincial Council, September 6th, 1756, that him- 
self, his brother Richard, and John Craig, were taken, by 
nine Delaware Indians, in February 1756, from a plantation 
two miles from McDowell's mill, and carried to Kittanning 
town on the Ohio (Alleghany river,) that on his way thither, 
he met Shingas with a party of thirty men, and afterwards 
with Captain Jacobs and fifteen, who were going on a design 
to destroy the settlements in Conegochege, that when he ar- 
rived at Kittanning, he saw there about one hundred fight- 
ing men of the Delaware tribe with their families and about 
fifty English prisoners consisting of men, women and children, 
that during his stay there Shingas' and Jacobs' parties re- 
turned, the one with nine scalps and ten prisoners ; the other 
with several scalps and five prisoners ; and that another com- 
pany of eighteen came from Diahoga with seventeen scalps 
fixed on a pole and carried them to Fort Du Quesne to ob- 
tain their reward — That the warriors held a council, which, 
with their war dances, continued a week, after which, Cap- 
tain Jacobs went with a party of forty-eight men intending (as 
he was told) to fall upon the inhabitants of Paxton ; that the 



INTRODUCTION. 99 

Indians frequently said they resolved to kill all the white 
folks except a few, with whom they would afterwards make 
a peace; that they made an example of one Paul Broadly, 
whom they, agreeable to their usual cruelty, beat for half an 
hour with clubs and tomahawks, and afterwards fastening 
him to a post, cropt his ears close to his head ; and chopped 
his fingers — that they called together all the prisoners to wit- 
ness the scene ot their inhuman barbarity. 

He further said, that about the beginning of March, he 
was taken by three Indians to Diahoga, where he found about 
fifty warriors belonging to the Delaware, Mohiccon and 
Munsey tribes, and about twenty German prisoners ; that 
while he was there, the Indians frequently went in parties of 
twelve, to destroy the inhabitants, and as often returned with 
their scalps, but no prisoners; that their whole conversation 
was continually filled with expressions of vengenance against 
the English, and resolutions to kill them, and lay waste their 
country. That in May all the Indians moved from Diahoga 
about twenty miles higher up the river to plant corn, where 
most of them have since lived. 

That they, with the prisoners, during the whole summer 
have been in a starving condition, having very little venison 
and corn, and reduced to the necessity of living upon dog 
flesh and the few roots and berries they could collect in the 
woods ; that several of the prisoners had died for the want 
of food. 

That on the 9th of August he left Diahoga and came 
down the river in a canoe with Makomsey to Gnahay, to get 
some corn that was left under ground, and that in the morn- 
ing after he arrived there, the Indians having gone out to 
hunt, he made his escape on the 14th of August (fast) and 
came to Fort Augusta at six o'clock in the evening. 

It is stated, in the Provincial Records, "the poor boy was 
extremely reduced, had dangerous swellings on his body, and 
was in a sickly condition ; the goveruor therefore ordered him 
lodging and the attendance of a doctor." 

On the 20th Feb. 1756, says Gordon, Captain Patterson 
with a scouting party, fell in with some Indians at Middle 
creek, in Cumberland county (now Union), one of whom they 
scalped* and put the others to flight, having one of his own 

* The Indian whom they scalped was probably Shecalemy's sister's 
son, as will appear from the following letter from Thomas McKee, da- 



100 INTRODUCTION. 

men wounded. He reported the woods, from the Juniata to 
Shamokin, to be filled with Indians, seeking plunder and 
scalps, and burning all the houses, and destroying the grain 
in that vicinity. 

" February 1756, a party of Indians from Shamokin came 
to Juniata. They first came to Hugh Mitcheltrees, being on 
the river, who had gone to Carlisle, and had got a young 
man, named Edward Nicholass to stay with his wife until he 
would return — the Indians killed them both. The same 
party of Indians went up the river where the Luken's now 
live — William Wilcox lived on the opposite side of the river, 
whose wife and eldest son had come over the river on some 
business — the Indians came while they were there and killed 
Eold dward Nicholass and his wife, and took Joseph, Thomas 
and Catharine Nicholass, John Wilcox, James Armstrong's 
wife and two children prisoners. 

" An Indian named Cotties, who wished to be Captain of 
this party, when they did not choose him, he would not go 
with them. He and a boy w^ent to Shearman's creek, and 
killed William Sheridan and his family, thirteen in number. — 
They then went down the creek to where three old persons 
lived, two men and a woman, called French, whom they kill- 
ed ; of which they often boasted afterwards, that he and the 
boy took more scalps than the whole party. 

" On Sunday, February 29, 1756, two boys, at a small 
distance from David David's, in the Little Cove, Cumberland 
county, were fired upon by some Indians. One of them es- 

ted "Fort at Hunter's mill, (six or seven miles above Harrisburg,) 
April 5, 1756," and addressed to Ed. Shippen, Esq., at Lancaster. 

I desire to let you know that John Shecalemy, Indian, is come here 
in the afternoon, and gives me an account that there is great confusion 
amongst the Indians up the North Branch of Susquehannah ; the Del- 
awares are moving all from thence to Ohio, and want to persuade the 
Shanoies along with them, but they decline going with them that course 
as they still incline to join with us. The Shanoies are going up to the 
town called Teaoga (Diahoga) where there is a body of the Six Na- 
tions, and there they intend to remain. He has brought two more men, 
some women and some children along with him, and says that he in- 
tends to live and die with us, and insist upon my conducting him down 
to where his sister and children are at Canestogo, and I am loath to 
leave my post as his Honor wasoifended at the last timet did, but can't 
help it. He desires me to acquaint you that his sister's son was killed 
at Penn's creek in the scrimage with Capt. Patterson. This with due 
respect from yours, sScc. 



INTRODUCTION. 101 

caped and alarmed the fort. The Indians to the number of 
twenty, immediately came up and took possession of the bain, 
and fired repeatedly on the fort, in which there were eight 
or ten men. The fire was briskly and effectively returned. — 
Failing in this attempt, the enemy divided their force into 
two parties, and proceeded to the commission of the usual 
ravages. But the inhabitants of Peters' township collected 
in small parties, between three and four o'clock in the after- 
noon, marched to the fort, and on the next morning set out 
in pursuit of the savages. They came in sight of six on 
horseback, who, being closely pursued, abandoned their horses 
and fled into the woods, leaving behind them a woman they 
had taken the day before, near the Potomac. 

" Another party under Mr. Potter, discovered the trail of 
two companions of the enemy, whom they followed, until 
baffled in the pursuit by the falling snow. These compan- 
ions belonged to Shingas and Jacobs. In this affray they 
killed four whites, and made prisoners of a like number. 

" In the evening of the same day, a party of Indians was 
discovered by one Alexander, near the house of Thomas 
Barr, in Peters' township. Alexander was pursued, but es- 
caped, and alarmed the fort at McDowell's mill ; and notice 
of the presence of the enemy was speedily given to the town- 
ship. Early on Monday morning, a party, composed of four- 
teen men of Capt. Croghan's company, who were at the mill, 
and about twelve other young men, set off to watch the mo- 
tions of the enemy. Within a quarter of a mile of Barr's 
they fell in with fifty, and sent back for a re-inforcement 
from the fort. The young lads proceeded by a circuit to 
take the enemy in the rear, whilst the soldiers should attack 
them in front. But the impetuosity of the soldiers defeated 
their plan. For getting within gun shot, they immediately 
engaged the Indians, who were standing around the fire, and 
slew several of them at the first discharge. The Indians 
briskly returned the fire, killing one of the soldiers, and 
compelled the rest to retreat. The party of young men, 
hearing the report of fire arms, hastened up, and ftnding the 
Indians on the ground which the soldiers had occupied, deliv- 
ered their fire with effect, but, concluding that the soldiers 
had fled, or were slain, they also retreated. One of their 
number, Barr's son, was wounded, and would have fallen by 
the tomahawk of an Indian, had not the savage been killed 

9* 



102 INTRODUCTION. 

by a shot from one Armstrong, who saw him running upon 
the lad. Soon after, the soldiers and young men being joined 
by a re-inforcement from the mill, again sought the enemy, 
who, eluding their pursuit, crossed the creek near William 
Clark's, and attempted to surprise the fort ; but their design 
was discovered by two Dutch lads, coming from foddering 
their master's cattle. One of the lads was slain, but the 
other reached the fort, which was immediately surrounded by 
the Indians, who, from a thicket fired many shots at the 
men in the garrison, who appeared above the wall, and re- 
turned the fire as often as they obtained sight of the enemy. 
At this time, two men crossing to the mill fell into the mid- 
dle of the assailants, but made their escape into the fort, 
though fired at three times. The party at Barr's now came 
up, and drove the Indians through the thicket ; in their re- 
treat they met five men from Mr. Hoops', riding to the mill ; 
they killed one of these, and wounded another severely. The 
sergeant at the fort, having lost two of his men, dechned to 
follow the enemy, until his commander, Mr. Crawford, who 
was at Hoops' should return, and, the snow falling thick, 
they had time to burn Barr's house, and in it they consumed 
their dead. In the mormng of the second of March, M. 
Crawford, with fifty men, went in quest of the enemy, but 
was unsuccessful in his search. — Gordon's His. Pa. 616, '17. 

Every where along the frontier did the Indians commit the 
most horrid murders. Their implacable cruelty was stimu- 
lated by the promise of reward for scalps on the part of the 
French ; beside the promise of restoring them their lands. 

In a letter dated March 8, 1756, Hanover township, Lan- 
caster (now Dauphin) county, it is said that the morning be- 
fore, namely, the 7th of March, Andrew Lycan, who lived 
over the mountain, had been attacked by the Indians. 

He had with him a son, John Lycan, a negro man, and a 
boy and two of his neighbors, John Revolt and Ludwig Shut. 
That Andrew Lycan and John Revolt went out early that 
morning to fodder their creatures, when two guns were fired 
at them, but did not hurt them: upon which they ran into the 
house and prepared themselves for an engagement. That then 
the Indians got under cover of a hog-house near the dwelling 
house, John Lycan, Revolt, and Shut, crept out of the house, 
in order to get a shot at them, but were fired at by the Indi- 
ans, and all wounded, and Shut in the abdomen. That An- 



INTRODUCTION. 103 

drew Lycan saw one of the Indians over the hog-house, and 
got a little distance from it ; and also saw two white mt-n run 
out of the hog-house and get a little distance from it. That 
upon this, our people endeavored to escape, but were pursued 
by the Indians to the number of sixteen or upwards, and John 
Lycan and Revolt being badly wounded, were able to do 
nothing, and so went off with the negro, and left And-rew 
Lycan, Shut and the boy, engaged with the Indians. That 
the enemy pursued so closely, that one of them came up to 
the boy and was going to strike his tomahawk into him, when 
Shut turned and shot him dead, and Lycan shot another, and 
he is positive that he killed him — saw a third fall, and thinks 
they wounded some more of them. That they being now 
both ill wounded, and almost spent, they sat down on a log 
to rest themselves, and the Indians stood a little way off look- 
ing at them. 

That one ol the said Indians killed was Bill Davis, and two 
others they knew to be Tom Hickman and Tom Hayes, all 
Delawares, and well known in these parts. That all our men 
got into Hanover township, and under the care of a doctor, 
and are likely to do well, but have lost all they are worth. 
And that the people of that township were raising a number 
of men to go after the enemy. The above people lived twen- 
ty-five miles below Shamokin, at or near Wiskinisco creek. 

There were many singular and dangerous encounters be- 
tween the English and Indians, which seem to startle the 
reader. But among the many achievements, says Loudon, 
against the Indians in our wars with them, few exceed that 
performed by Samuel Bell, formerly owner of the noted farm 
on the Stony Ridge, five miles below Carlisle, which was as 
follows : 

Some time after General Braddock's defeat, he and his 
brother, James Bell, agreed to go into Shearman's valley to 
hunt for deer, and were to meet at Croghan's, now Sterret's 
Gap, on the Blue Mountain, by some means or other they did 
not meet, and Samuel slept all night in a cabin belonging to 
Mr. Patton on Shearman's creek : in the morning he had not 
travelled far before he spied three Indians, who at the same 
time saw him, they all fired at each other ; he wounded one 
of the Indians, but received no damage, except through his 
clothes by the balls ; several shots were fired on both sides, 
for each took a tree ; he took out his tomahawk and stuck it 



104 INTRODUCTION. 

into the tree behind which he stood, so that should they ap- 
proach he might be prepared ; the tree was grazed with the 
Indian's balls, and he had thoughts of making his escape by 
flight, but on reflection had doubts of his being able to out- 
run them. After some time the two Indians took the wound- 
ed one and put him over a fence, and one took one course 
and the other another, taking a compass so that Bell could 
no longer secure himself by the tree, but by trying to ensnare 
him they had to expose themselves, by which means he had 
the good fortune to shoot one of them dead, the other ran 
and took the dead Indian on his back, one leg over each 
shoulder : by this time Bell's gun was again loaded ; he then 
ran after the Indian until he came within about four yards 
from him, fired, and shot through the dead Indian, and lodged 
his ball in the other, who dropped the dead man and ran off; 
on his return, coming past the fence where the wounded In- 
dian was, he despatched him, but did not know he had killed 
the third Indian until his bones were found afterwards. 

About the 4th April, 1756, McCord's fort in Conoco- 
cheague, was burned by the Indians, and twenty-seven per- 
sons were killed or captured ; the Indians escaped the pur- 
suit of two parties of inhabitants of the vicinity, who had 
divided themselves into three parties to seek them. Several 
other forts along the frontier line were watched by outlying 
parties of savages, and every straggler was made a prisoner or 
shot down. The third party came up with the enemy at 
Sidling hill, with whom they had a smart engagement for 
two hours, during which they fired twenty-four rounds, but 
were overpowered by numbers, the Indians having been suc- 
ceeded by a force under Shingas. Each side sustained a loss 
of about twenty killed and as many wounded, 

In a letter dated, at Shippensburg, April 12, 1756, a list of the killed 
and wounded, in the above named engagement with the Indians, is 
given. 

KiLtED of the company under the command of Captain Culbertson : 
Alexander Culbertson, captain ; John Reynolds, ensign of Capt. Cham- 
bers' company ; William Kerr, James Blair, John Layson, William 
Denny, Francis Scott, William Boyd, Jacob Paynter, Jacob Jones, Ro- 
bert Kerr and William Chambers. 

Wounded, Abraham Jones, Francis Campbell, William Reynolds, 
John Barnet, Benjamin Blyth, John McDonald and Isaac Miller. 

■ Killed of Captain Hamilton's men under the command of Ensign 
Jamieson, Daniel McCoy, James Robinson, James Peace, John Blair, 
Henry Jones, John McCarty and John Kelly. 



INTRODUCTION. 105 

WocNDED, Ensign Jamieson, James Robinson, William Hunter, Ma- 
thias Ganshorn, Wm. Swailes, and James Lowder (since dead). 

[Letter from Hance Hamilton to Capt. Potter.] 

Fort Littleton, April 4, 1756, 8 o'clock, P. M. 
Sir — These come to inform you of the melancholy news of what oc- 
curred between the Indians that have taken many captives from Mc- 
Cord's Fort, and a party of men under the command of Capt. Alexander 
Culbertson, and nineteen of our men, the whole amounting to about 
fifty with the captives, and had a sore engagement, many of both par- 
ties killed and many wounded; the number unknown; those wounded 
want a surgeon, and those killed require your assistance as soon as 
possible to bury them. We have sent an express to Fort Shirley for 
Doctor Mercer, supposing Dr. Jamison is killed, or mortally wounded 
in the expedition, he being not refurned; therefore desire you will 
send an express immediately for Dr. Prentice to Carlisle, we imagin- 
ing Dr. Mercer cannot leave the Fort under the circumstances the Fort 
is under. Our Indian Isaac has brought in Capt. Jacob's Scalp (!) 
[Not quite certain.] 

Sir, please to exert yourself in this affair, 
I am sir, &c. 

Hance Hamiltok. 

Peteus' TowNsnip, in Cumberland county, 
April 11th, 1756. 
May it please your Honor, (Gov. Morris,) 

Upon my return to Cu.iaberland county, I applied immediately to 
Captain Burd and Captain Patterson, for the draughts out of their com- 
panies, according to your Honor's instructions ; but the time for which 
most of their men was enlisted, is expired, they could not fulfil your 
Honor's orders. Most of the Forts had not received their full com- 
plement of guns. But we are in a great measure supplied by the 
arms the young men had brought with them. Capt. Patterson had 
received but thirty three fire arms; Capt. Mercer has not so many, 
but is supplied by Mr. Croghan's arms; and Capt. Hamilton has lost 
a considerable number of his at the late skirmish beyond Sideling Hill. 

As I can neither have the men, arms, nor blankets, I am obliged to 
apply to your honor for them; the necessity of our circumstances 
has obliged me to muster before two magistrates the one-half oi my 
company whom I enlisted, and am obliged to borrow yours. I pray 
that with all possible expedition, fifty-four fire arms, and as many 
blankets, and a quantity of flints may be sent me; tor since McCord's 
Fort has been taken, and the men defeated that pursued, our country 
is in the utmost confusion. 

Great numbers have left the county, and many are preparing to 
follow. May il please your Honor to allow me an Ensign, for I find 
that a sergeant's pay will not prevail with men to enlist in whom 
much confidence is to be reposed. I beg leave to recommend Arch- 
ibald Erwin to your honor for this purpose. As Mr. Hoops can give 
your honor a particular account of the late incursions of the enemy, 
I need not trouble your honor with any account of mine. 

I am your Honor's 
most obliged, humble servant, 

John Stkel. 



106 INTRODUCTION. 

Lancaster, 24lh of April, 1756. 
To Hon. R. H. Morris, Gov. 
Honored Sir: 

The enclosed is a copy of a paper which Mr. George Sanderson of 
this town brought here yesterday from Carlisle, said to have been 
found in Mr. McDowell's pocket who was lately killed at the head of 
a party of Indians from Fort Du Quesne, by the Virginia militia on 
Polowmack. 

I see by the newspapers, it was supposed that Captain Culberl- 
son's men, who went in pursuit of the Indians that took McCord's 
Fort, had killed fifteen of the enemy, among whom they were confident 
Capt. Jacobs is one (1). If Mr. Francis Campbell, of Shippensburg. 
wrote that account, as he was one of the party, I suppose it was rea- 
dily believed, he being known by some gentlemen in Philadelphia to 
be a person of credit and sense; but his relation of that transaction 
difl'ers widely from the following story, as to the number of Indians 
killed, which was told to me two days ago by Mr. Benjamin Blythe, 
living near Shippensburg, who was also in the battle ; he says our 
men gave the first fire, but without any success ; that then the Indians 
ran from their fire places with their arms and ammunition, and in less 
than ten minutes our men found themselves surrounded, which they 
did not discover before the Indians fired upon them, that notwithstand- 
ing our men were so exposed to the enemy's fire and dropping every 
now and then, they fought about two hours and a half by his watch, 
and then perceiving a reinforcement from Shingas' party, they unani- 
mously agreed to endeavor to break the enemies circle, as he called 
it, in order to make them retreat, in which they luckily succeeded. He 
says they killed but three of the Indians, to the best of his knowledge, 
and that he doubts whether Capt. Jacobs was one of them; he rather 
thinks the man taken to be him, was a great warrior in his company. 
This Blythe is an intelligent, sensible man, of good reputation ; he had 
the misfortune to be shot through the arm. He says that where they 
broke the circle, three stout Indians, who had just discharged their 
pieces, rose off" the ground from behind a thicket of grubs and ran oflT; 
that he drew his trigger at them, but his gun only burnt priming. 

The Indians make use of rifled guns for the most part, and there is 
such a difference between these sort of guns, and smooth bored, that if 
I was in an engagement with the savages, I would sooner stand my 
chance with one of the former sort, which might require a minute to 
clean load and discharge, than be possessed with a smooth, broad gun, 
which could discharge three times in the same space ; for at 150 yards 
distance with the one, I can seldom or ever hit the board of two feet 
wide and six feet long. 

I cannot say I have been pleased with the sight of any of the guns 
which have been carried through this borough for the service of the 
Province. I don't mention this as a reflection on the Commission- 
ers, who have done for the best in that respect, but still it is unfortu- 
nate for us. Yet, I beg your Honor not inform them of this remark. 

I am, your Honor's, &c. 

Edward Shippen, 

" In the year 1756, captain Jacobs, an Indian chief and 



INTRODUCTION. 107 

forty warriors, came upon the Coves, in Cumberland county, 
burned and destroyed that Httle settlement, killed many and 
took a number of prisoners. One Hugh McSwine was abroad 
at the time, when he came home, he followed after, and 
overtook them at Tussey's Narrows; Jacobs took him for a spy 
and made him prisoner ; there was with this party of Indians, 
one Jackson a white man, who had joined the Indians, and 
was more industrious and revengeful than the native Indians ; 
next morning captain Jacobs sent McSwine and another pri- 
soner, under the care of Jackson and one warrior, by whom 
he also sent his horse and a silver mounted gun, while thev 
went in quest of some more of the poor unhappy inhabitants'^; 
the Indian and Jackson, with the two prisoners, travelled un- 
til night came on, when they took up their lodging in a waste 
cabin, and sent McSwine to cut rails to make a fire, but 
when he got the axe, he began to think how he could manage 
to kill both Indian and white man, and immediately put his 
plan into execution ; he went in with his axe, split down the 
Indian, but before he had time to strike another blow, Jack- 
son was on his feet, and they instantly got in gripes with 
each other ; they were both very strong men, and after a long 
time, McSwine began to fail, and was still calling on the 
other man to assist him, but he stood trembling, and could 
do nothing; at length McSwine had the good fortune to get 
one of the guns in his hand, knocked down his antagonist, 
and so put an end to him ; he scalped both the Indian and 
Jackson ; and next evening arrived at lort Cumberland,* 
with captain Jocob's horse and gun, Col. Washington sent 
him to Winchester, (Virginia,) where he got paid for the 
scalps, horse and gun, and received a lieutenant's commission. 
" About this time there was a party of Cherokees, seventy 
in number, who came to the assistance of the people of Penn- 
sylvania ; they went in pursuit of a party of Indians as far 
as the west side of sideling hill, when they despaired of com- 
ing up with them and returned. There was some white men 
along with these Cherokees, among whom was Hugh Mc- 

* We have been informed, that the reason of McSwine's going so 
quickly to fort Cumberland was, Capt. Jacobs with his party, intended 
to attack the fort the day after McSwine arrived there, but by his giv- 
ing information to Col. Washington, he was prepared for them, and 
they were disappointed in their plans, the fort was not taken. — A. Lou- 
don, Editor. 



108 



INTRODUCTION. 



Swine ; this party in their return fell in with another party of 
Indians coming into the settlements, to murder, and a skirmish 
ensued, but by some means McSwine was parted from his 
company, and pursued by these Indians, his gun being load- 
ed, he turned round and shot the one nearest to him, and then 
ran on, and charging again, shot another, upon which the 
third gave a yell and turned back ; the Cherokees shortly af- 
ter brought in four scalps and two prisoners of the enemy, 
one of which was a squaw, who had been twelve times at 
war. About this time some Cherokees and white men went 
to reconnoitre fort Duquesne, and in returning home the white 
men was not able to keep up with the Indians, and so were 
left behind in the wilderness, and some of them got home in 
a very distressing condition. Hugh McSwine, after many 
dangerous enterprises, and much toil and fatigue, many bat- 
tles and skirmishes with the Indians, in defence of his coun- 
try, fell by them in a battle near Ligonier. 

"William Mitchel, an inhabitant of Conococheague,had col- 
lected a number of reapers to cut down his grain ; having 
gone out to the field, the reapers all laid down their guns at 
the fence, and set in to reap, the Indians suffered them to 
reap on for some time till they got out into the open field, 
they then secured their guns, killed and captured them every 
man. 

" At another time there came a party of Indians into 
Conococheague and took a number of scalps and prisoners, 
for at that time the inhabitants were never secure, no sooner 
had one party finished their work of destruction and retreat- 
ed, than another commenced their deprivations ; however a 
large company of men was quickly collected and pursued 
those Indians, overtook them at Sidling hill and surprised 
them in their camp ; upon which the Indians ran off with 
the greatest precipitation and left their guns behind, but the 
w^hite men neglected to secure them, the Indians taking a 
circuitous course, procured their guns, came upon them and 
defeated them ; but whether the prisoners were released or 
not, we do not remember of hearing."* 

The Indians persevered in their depredations and works of 
destruction. On Wednesday, the 26th May, 1756, they 
came to the plantation of John Wasson, in Peters' township, 

• Loudon's Narrative, Vol. ii., p. 190— '92. 



INTRODUCTION. 109 

Cumberland county, (now Franklin,) whom they killed and 
mangled in so horrid and cruel a manner, that a regard to de- 
cency forbids describing it ; and afterwards burnt his house, 
and carried off his wife. A party of Peters' and Steel's men 
went out after the enemy, but to no purpose. 

Some time in June, Fort Bigham, in Tuscarora valley, 
about twelve miles from Mifflin, was destroyed by the Indi- 
ans. A number were carried off and some killed. George 
Woods, Nathaniel Bigham, Robert Taylor, his wifc^," done 
child, and John McDonnel were missing. Some of these, it 
was supposed, were burnt, as a number of bones were found. 
Susan Giles was found dead and scalped ; Alexander McAl- 
lister and his wife, James Adams, Jane Cochran, and two 
children were missed. McAllister's house had been burnt, 
and a number of cattle and horses had been driven off. The 
enemy was supposed to be numerous, as they did eat and car- 
ry off a great deal of the beef they had killed — Pa. Gazette. 

George Woods was the father-in-law of James Ross, who ran for 
Governor, and raised some fifteen years ago in Bradford. 

Hance, or John Gray, afterwards joined a volunteer company, and 
went against the Indians in Kittaning, with the hopes of finding his 
wife and child. Shortly after the Kittaning expedition, he died in Bucks 
county. 

Francis Innis remained a prisoner or captive, till the Indian treaty. 

Har. Res;. 192. 

July 26th, 1756, they killed Joseph Martin, and took cap- 
tive John McCulloughand James McCullough, in the Conoco- 
cheague settlement.* August 27th there was a great slaugh- 
ter or massacre, wherein the Indians tilled thirty-nine persons. 
This happened on the Salisbury plain, near the mouth of Co- 
nococheague creek, as a number of men, women and children 
were attending a funeral, they were fired on by the Indians, 
who killed and scalped fifteen persons, and wounded many of 
the others. The same day six men went from Isaac Baker's 
upon the scout ; one returned wounded ; four were killed, and 
the other was captured. And six others, going to one Er- 
win's, to haul grain were attacked ; one wounded in the hand, 
who, together with a companion, escaped ; the rest were kill- 
ed. Four more, who went from Shirley's fort, were also 
masacred or made prisoners. On the same day, two families 

• See Appendix, D, McCuUough's Narrative. 

10 



m 



110 INTRODUCTION. 

on Salisbury plain, consisting of nine persons, were most inhu- 
manly butchered and mangled. 

Upon the following day, as Captain Emmet and a scouting 
party were crossing the South mountain, they were fired on, 
and three of their number killed and two wounded. A few 
days after this, one William Morrison went to his place in 
Conococheague settlement, where he was discovered by five 
Indian"?, and, finding he could not escape by running, he put 
himse'f ,^in an active position, beckoning and making signs, 
first to one side, then to the other, as if a party of his friends 
were at hand, trying to surround the Indians, which they per- 
ceiving, retreated into the woods, and he got off safe.* 

August 28, 1756, Betty Ramsey, her son and the cropper 
.killed, and her daughter taken captive. 

Some time in the month of July, 1756, the Indians appear- 
ed again in Shearman's valley, and abducted Hugh Robinson. 

I was, says Robinson, taken captive by the Indians, from 
Robin's fort in Shearman's valley, in July, 1756, at which 
time my mother was killed ; I was taken back to their towns, 
where I suffered much from hunger and abuse; many times 
they beat me most severely, and once they sent me to gather 
wood to bum myself, but I cannot tell whether they intended 
to do it or to frighten me ; however, I did not remain long 
before I was adopted into an Indian family, and then I Uved 
as they did, though the living was very poor. I was then 
about fourteen years of age: my Indian father's name was 
Busqueetam; he was lame in consequence of a wound received 
by his knife in skinning a deer, and being unable to walk, he 
ordered me to drive forks in the ground and cover it with 
bark to make a lodge for him to lie in, but the forks not be- 
ing secure they gave way, and the bark fell down upon him 
and hurt him very much, which put him in a great rage, and 
calling for his knife, ordered us to carry him upon a blanket 
into the hut, and I must be one that helps to carry him in ; 
while we were carrying him I saw him hunting for the knife, 
but my Indian mother had taken care to convey it away, and 
when we had got him again fixed in his bed, my mother or- 
dered me to conceal myself, which I did ; I afterwards heard 
him reproving her for putting away the knife; for by this 
time I had learned to understand a little of their language. 

• Gordon's His. Pa. 620. 



INTSIODUCTION. Ill 

However his passion wore off and we did very well for the 
future. 

Some time after this all the prisoners in the neighborhood 
w^ere collected to be spectators of the cruel death of a poor, 
unhappy woman, a prisoner, amongst which number I was. 
The particulars is as follows: When Col. Armstrong destroy- 
ed the Kittaning this woman fled to the white men, but by 
some means lost them and fell into the hands of the Indians, 
who stripping her naked, bound her to a ix)st, and applying 
hot irons to her whilst the skin stuck to the iron at every 
touch, she screaming in the most pitiful manner, and crying 
for mercy, but these ruthless barbarians were deaf to her 
agonizing shrieks and prayers; and continued their cruelty 
till death released her from the torture of those hellish fiends. 
Of this shocking scene at which human nature shudders, the 
prisoners were all brought to be spectators. 

I shall omit giving any particular account of our encamping 
and decamping, and our moving from place to place, as every one 
knows this is the constant employment of Indians. I had now- 
become pretty well acquainted with their manners and customs, 
had learned their language, and was become a tolerable good 
hunter — was admitted to their dances, to their sacrifices, and 
religious ceremonies. Some of them have a tolerable good 
idea of the Supreme Being ; and I have heard some of them 
very devoutly thanking their Maker, that they had seen an- 
other spring, cind had seen the flowers upon the earth. I ob- 
served that their prayers and praises, was for temporal things. 
They have one bad custom amongst them ; that if one man 
kill another, the friends of the deceased, if they cannot get 
the murderer, they wall kill the nearest akin. I once saw an 
instance of this ; two of them quarrelled, and the one killed 
the other, upon which the friends of the deceased rose in pur- 
suit of the murderer, but he having made his escape, his 
friends were all hiding themselves; but the pursuers happened 
to find a brother of the murderers, a boy^ concealed under a 
log, they immediately pulled him out from his concealment, 
he plead strongly that it was not him that killed the man ; 
this had no weight with the avengers of blood, they instantly 
sunk their tomahawks into his body and despatched him. But 
they have some rules and regulations among them that is 
good; their ordinary way of living is miserable and poor, of- 
ten without food. They are amazing dirty in their cookery, 



112 INTRODUCTION. 

sometimes they catch a number of frogs, and hang them up to 
dry, when a deer is killed they will split up the guts and give 
them a plunge or two in the water, and then dry them, and 
when they run out of provisions, they will take some of the 
dried frogs, and some of the deers guts and boil them, till the 
flesh of the frogs is dissolved, then they sup the broth. 

Having now been with them a considerable time, a favora- 
ble opportunity offered for me to regain my liberty, my old 
father Busquetum, lost a horse and he sent me to hunt for 
him, after searching some time I came home and told him 
that I had discovered his tiacks at some considerable dis- 
tance, and that I thought I could find him, that I would take 
my gun and provision, and would hunt for three or four days 
and if I could kill a bear or deer 1 would pack home the 
meat on the horse; accordingly I packed up some provision, 
and started towards the white settlements, not fearing pur- 
suit for some days, and by that time I would be out of the 
reach of the pursuers. But before I was aware, I was almost 
at a large camp of Indians, by a creek side ; this was in the 
evening and I had to conceal myself in a thicket till it was 
dark, and then passed the camp, and crossed the creek in 
one of their canoes ; I was much afraid that their dogs 
would give the alarm, but happily got safe past. I travelled 
on for several days, and on my way I spied a bear, shot at 
and wounded him, so that he could not run ; but being too 
hasty ran up to him with my tomahawk, before I could give 
a blow, he gave me a severe stroke on the leg, which pained 
me very much, and retarded my journey much longer than it 
otherwise would have been ; however I travelled on as well 
as I could till I got to the Alleghany river, where I collected 
some poles, with which 1 made a raft, and bound it together 
with elm bark and grape-vines, by which means I got over 
the river, but in crossing which I lost my gun. I arrived at 
fort Pitt in fourteen days from the time of my start, after a 
captivity of five years and four months. — Lovdon's JVai'rative 
vol. ii. 190-'94. 

In July the savages murdered some persons in Shearman's 
valley. The Indians, says Robert Robison, w^ay-laid the 
fort in harvest time and kept quiet until the reapers were 
gone ; James Wilson remaining some time behind the rest, and 
I not being gone to my business, which was hunting deer, for 
the use of the company, Wilson standing at the fort gate, I 



INTRODUCTION. 113 

desired liberty to shoot his gun at a mark, upon which he 
gave me the gun, and I shot ; the Indian on the upper side 
of the fort, thinking they were discovered, rushed on a 
daughter of Robert Miller, and instantly killed her, and shot 
at John Simnaeson, they then made the best of it that they 
could, and killed the wife of Jmaes Wilson,* and the widow 
Gibson, and took Hugh Gibson and Betsey Henry prisoners ; 
the reapers being forty in number returned to the fort and 
the Indians made olT. 

Some time after Braddock's" defeat. Fort Granville was 
erected at a place called Old Town, on the bank of the Ju- 
niata, some distance from the present site of Lewistown, then 
Cumberland, now Mifflin county, where a company of en- 
listed soldiers were kept, under the command of Lieutenant 
Armstrong. Tlie position of the fort was not the most fa- 
A'orable. The Indians who had been lurking about there for 
some time and knowing that Armstrong's men "were few in 
number, sixty of them appeared, July 22, before the fort, 
and challenged the garrison to combat ; but this was declin- 
ed by the commander, in consequence of the weakness of his 
force. The Indians fired at and wounded one man belonging 
to the fort, who had been a short way from it — yet, he got 
in safe ; after which they divided themselves into small par- 
ties, one of w^hich attacked the plantation of one Baskins, 
near Juniata, whom they murdered, burnt his house and car- 
ried off his wife and children ; and another made Hugh Car- 
roll and his family prisoners. 

On the 30th of July, Captain Ward left the fort with all 
his men, except twenty-four under the command of Lieut. 
Armstrong, to guard some reapers in Shearman's valley. — 
Soon after the Captain's departure, the fort was attacked by 
about one hundred Indians and French, who having assailed 
it in vain during the afternoon and night of that day, took 
to the Juniata creek, and, protected by its bank, attained 
a deep ravine, by which they were enabled to approach, with- 
out fear of injury, to within ten or twelve yards of the fort, 
to which they succeeded in setting it on fire. Through a hole 
thus made they killed the Lieutenant and private, and wound- 
ed three others while endeavoring to extinguish the fire.— 

• While the Indian was scalping Mrs. Wilson, the relator shot at and 
wounded him but he made his escape. — A. Loudow, Editor. 

10* 



114 INTRODUCTION. 

The enemy then offering quarters to the besieged, if they 
would surrender, one Turner immediately opened the gate to 
them. They took prisoners, twenty-two soldiers, three wo- 
men, and seven children, whom they loaded with burdens 
and drove them off. The fort was burnt by Captain Jacobs, 
pursuant to the order of the French commander. When the 
Indians reached Kittaning,they put Turner to death with the 
most horrid tortures. They tied him to a post, danced around 
him, made a great fire, and having heated gun-barrels red- 
hot, ran them through his botjy. Having tormented him for 
three hours, they scalped him alive, and at last held up a boy 
with a hatchet in his hand, to give him the finishing stroke. — 
Gordori's His. Pa. p. 619. 

Before leaving Fort Granville, they posted up a paper, 
which was afterwards found there, and was sent to the Gov- 
ernor and council ; and has since been carefully kept among 
other papers and letters in the Secretary's office. The fol- 
lowing is a literal transcript of the original, copied by the 
writer in December, 1844. 

The paper appears to be a mere fragment of a letter. It 
is incoherent — has many omissions, which are not easily sup- 
plied, without knowing the particular circumstances unde- 
which it was written. 



II nece poin duxe peu ne pase pas que Jamay j"e nous Regarde de 
bon Coeur Et nesperce jamay auqueune grase de raapare Car jene 
auqueune an vie de vous voyr apre le Chagrien que vous mave Cau- 
sez ain si Char Cher allteur pour moy nel'aitte poin defou non plus 
sur un in Conseten qui ne panse Cason pie sir Croye moy Char Che 
fore tune allieurs pour moy je n ne panse arien moy Case la il nez 
rien qui puise me De tou ne de nest sanii man adie bon soir el nes pa 
tar je par de mein vous mouve toujoure dixetros vous il nes pa Conve- 
nabie que vous Restier isci Cela ne vous Conrenien pas Cinon je 
prandre plu vous prandre des Mesure pour y me ditour nerplu je serai 
rustique ne panse pa que serve devous percequitte vous panserie malle 
Car je sivous voulle netre poin tenu retire v.us demoy Car je ne sour- 
ois re sis ter 

Vostre Servette 

Pinella Ciere. 

The following is also copied from the same paper of the 
original. It is an interlineal, rotho graphical correction of 
the original *' spelling:'* 



INTRODUCTION. 115 

August the 18th, 1756. 
To Hance Hamilton : 
Sir— 
I have sent express to you with the French letter, and one from Lieu- 
tenant Thompson, and a copy of that I have sent per Captain Hamilton 
and Ensign Scott, and the remainder I will send by Potter and Steel's 
men. Lieutenant Holiday sent to me last night for blankets, and says 
that his men are all going to leave him for want of the same, as the in- 
habitants have all left the fort. Capt. Potter has forty-seven men; and 
how many Captain Steel has I cannot tell; I believe about thirty or 
upwards. 

If you have any blankets send them by the bearer. I believe I will 
make up near twenty strays, and the remainder I sent by Potter and 
Steel's men, which I hope you will receive at your arrival there. 

I have nothing more, that I remember, but my compliments to Mrs. 
Armstrong, and my earnest desire of your welfare and success. 
I am, with much esteem, 

your most humble servant, 

AuAM Hoops. 

N. B. I have got 39 pair of horse shoes, and 15 pair which are put 
on the horses. 

Since I wrote, the Courier (carrier) has come to me to let me know 
that near John Lindsay's, five or six Indians were seen, and that one 
was shot down at the Grindstone Hill; and he says that they cannot 
carry out the flour which they had agreed for with them : there are not 
five lamilies in all those parts, but what are now fled ; the settlement is 
lull of Indians, and are seen in many places. 

A. H. 

Wednesdat Morning, 5 o'clock, August 19, 1756. 
Dear Sir — 

I have last night received a letter by express from my Lieutenant 
which I have enclosed, with the original of the French letter, left at 
Fort Granville (near Lewistown, Mifllin county). We are all scarce of 
powder and lead at our forts. I am obliged to get a little from Mr. 
Hoops, and to give mv receipt as for the expedition. 

There is a party of Captain Mercer's company here ; and on our re- 
ceiving this letter we marched directly, taking with us twelve beef cat- 
tle, and the packhorses which belong to the two forts. The rest are to 
be brought up by Captain Potter's and Steel's men. 

Sir, there were five of my men who were free, about the 7th of July, 

and they continued in the service, until they heard of Fort Granville 

. being taken (and not be qualified they went ofl^ as it is reported for 

want of ammunition ; and we being so scarce, they openly refused to 

serve longer under such circumstances. 

Sir, I am your afl^ectionate, 

humble servant, 

Hanck Hamhtoh. 
To Col. John Armstrong, 
at Carlisle. 

Shortly after Fort Granville had been destroyed, Colonel 



116 INTRODUCTION. 

Armstrong entered upon what is well known as the Kittaning 
expedition. He advanced with three hundred men, till he 
reached the Beaver Dams, near Fronkstown, where he was 
joined by an advanced party, on Sept. 2d. On the 7th in the 
evening he reached Kittaning, and routed the enemy. (Par- 
ticulars of the expedition will be noticed in the sequel.) 

Letter from Col. Armstrong to the Hon. R. H. Morris, Esq. late 
Governor. 

Carlisle, 20th August, 1756. 
May it please your Honor — 

To-morrow, God willing, the men march from McDowell's for Fort 
Shirley, and this afternoon some part of my own company, with the 
provisions here, set out for Shearman's valley, there to halt till the 
residue come up. This night I expected to have been at Fort Shir- 
ley, but am much disappointed in getting in of the strays, for collec- 
ting' whereof we shall not wait longer than this day. Hunter has got 
about half a score, and commissary Hoops about a dozen. The com- 
missioners (for which your Honor will please to make them my sincere 
compliments) have sent every thing necessary except the canteens 
■wrote for by Mr. Buchannan, which I am persuaded ihey have forgot, 
and which we must supply by tin quarts. They were probably right 
in keeping back the tents, as they might have proven an incumbrance, 
and there is not one shilling laid out on this occasion that does not give 
me sensible uneasiness, but through the want of experience, and few- 
ness of our numbers, the good end proposed .should fail of being ob- 
tained. 

I am not yet determined whether to wait twenty-four hours longer on 
the answer of a letter sent to Colonel Ciapham for the intelligence of 
John Cox, who has been some time with, and now made his escape 
from the Indians, which I think would be very material, and which, 
if waited for until to-morrow, or Sunday night, will make it Tuesday 
before we can reach Fort Shirley. I dare not venture any thing of 
consequence now with a single messenger, so many Indians being 
in the woods. 

The harvest season, with the two attacks on Fort Granville (Lew- 
. istown) has left us bare of ammunition, that I shall be obliged to 
apply to the stores here for some quantity, for the expedition. The 
Captains, Hamilton and Mercer, having broken open the part I sent 
to McDowell's for Fort Shirley, and given them receipts as for the 
expedition, though I know it for the particular defence of those two 
posts : nor will it be in my power to prevail with double the number 
of men, and a double quantity of ammunition to keep a Fort, that 
would have done it before the taking of Fort Granville. I hope 
the first opportunity of conveying ammunition to this town will be ta- 
ken. For farther proofs of the numbers of Indians among us and wasie 
of this country, I shall enclose your Honor some letters lately received. 

Since the escape of the Dutchman, whose deposition I sent your Ho- 
nor, is also escaped a certain Peter Walker taken from Granville, and 
saith, that of the enemy not less than one hundred and twenty returned 



INTRODUCTION. 117 

all in health, except one Frenchman shot through the shoulder by 
Lieutenant Armstrong a little before his death, as the Frenchman was 
erecting his bodj' out of the hollow to see through the pine knots on the 
fire made against the Fort; and of this number there were about a do- 
zen of French, who had for their interpreter one McDowell, a Scotch- 
man. This McPowell told Walker they designed very soon to attack 
Fort Shirley, with four hundred men. Captain Jacobs said he could 
take any Fort that would catch fire, and would make peace with the 
English when they had learned him to make gunpowder. McDowell 
told Walker they had two Indians killed in the engagement, but the 
Captains, Armstrong and Ward, whom I ordered on their march to Fort 
Shirley to examine every thing at Granville, and send a list of whom 
remained among the ruins, assure me they found some parts of etght 
of the enemy burnt in two different places, the joints of them being 
scarcely separated, and parts of their shirts found, through which there 
were bullet holes. To secrete these from our prisoners was doubtless 
the reason why the French officer marched our people some distance 
from the Fort before they gave orders to burn the barracks, &c. Walk- 
er says that some of the Germans flagged very much on the second 
day, and that the Lieutenant behaved with the greatest bravery to the 
last, despising all the terrors and threats of the enemy, whereby they 
often urged him to surrender, though he had been near two days with- 
out water, but a little ammunition left, the fort on fire, and the enemy 
situated within twelve or fourteen yards of the fort, under the natural 
bank, he was as far from yielding as when at first attacked ; a French- 
man in our service fearful of being, as leave of the Lieutenant to treat 
with his countrymen, in the French language; the Lieutenant answer- 
ed, "The first word of French you speak in this engagement, I'll blow 
your brains out," telling his men to hold out bravely, for the flame was 
falling and he would soon have it extinguished, but soon after received 
the fatal bail. 

The French officer refused the soldiers the liberty of interring his 
corpse, though it was to be done in an instant when they raised the 
clay to quench the fire. 

One Brandon, a soldier who had been shot through the knee, on the 
approach of the enemy, called out, ''I am a Roman Catholic, and will 
go with you," but the Indians regardless of his faith, observing he could 
not march, soon despatched him with tomahawk. 

As Fort Shirley is not easily defended, and their water may be taken 
possession of by the enemy, it running at the foot of a high bank east- 
ward of the fort, and no well dug, lam of opinion, from its remote situ- 
ation, that it cannot serve the country in the present circumstances, 
and if attacked, I doubt will be taken if not strongly garrisoned, but (ex- 
tremities excepted) I cannot evacuate this without your Honor's or- 
ders. 

Lyttleton, Shippensburg and Carlisle (the two last not finished) are 
the only forts now built that will, in my opinion, be serviceable to the 
public. McDowell's, or thereabouts, is a necessary post, but the present 
fort not defencible. The duties of the harvest have not admitted me to 
finish Carlisle Fort with the soldiers, it should be done, and a barracks 
erected within the fort, otherwise the soldiers cannot be so well govern- 



118 INTRODUCTION. 

ed, and may be absent or without the gates, at a time of the greatest 
necessity. * 

I am honored sir, 

your Honor's most obedient 
and humble servant, 

John Abmstkoko. 
[Prov. Rec. P. p. 10-12]. 

The Indians at one of their inroads murdered a family of 

seven persons on Shearman's creek, from there they passed 

over the mountain at Croghan's, now Sterret's gap, and 

wounded a man, killed a horse, and captured Mrs. Boyde, her 

* two sons and a daughter,* upon Conodoguinet creek. 

Another time they came down upon the frontiers of Lan- 
caster, now Dauphin county ; the first assault was upon a 
wagon belonging to a German in which he was endeavoring 
to move off, but being killed a small distance behind the wa- 
gon, those with the wagon fled to a fort not far distant : the 
men in the fort being alarmed at the report of the Indian 
guns, came to see the occasion of it, and met a woman run- 
ning towards them crying ; they proceeded to where the wa- 
gon stood, and at some distance behind the man lay, toma- 
hawked and scalped, and the brains issuing from the wounds, 
although he was still breathing. The wagon being left 
standing in the same place, it was pillaged and destroyed in 
the night. 

The next day twelve men were sent to acquaint the men 
at the next fort about eight miles distant of what had hap- 
pened, who were fired upon from an ambuscade, and were 
killed and wounded all but two, who were pursued, but es- 
caped. 

Mrs. Boggs, of the same neighborhood, while riding to a 
neighbor's house, was fired upon by the Indians, her horse 
killed, and she with a young child taken prisoner, whom they 
treated in the most barbarous and cruel manner, not suffering 
the child to suck, sometimes throwing it in the road, and 
kicking it before them ; after three days' marching in this 
manner, they carried the child into the woods, where they 
murdered and scalped it, with savage cruelty. 

The savages still continued their " work of blood and 
butchery," during and after harvest, in Cumberland county, 
and in the upper part of Lancaster, so that the inhabitants 
were obliged in order to gather their harvest, to be under the 



INTRODUCTION. 119 

protection of armed men, and even then many were surprised 
and massacred by the enemy. The following extracts from 
letters written at the time, give the reader some idea of the 
deplorable condition of the frontier settlers : 

" Carlisle, den-22stn July, 1756. 

Am Sarastag giengen zwei Soldaten mit die Schnitter zu beshuetzen 
hej McDanels Muehl, und da sie nur ein wenig auf die Seite gingen, 
wurde der eine von den Indianern gescolpt und der andere gefangen 
mit genommen. Ein anderer Soldat wollte zwei Maedgen begleilen 
die Wasser holteu, der wurde gefangen und die Maedgen sprangen 
davon. 

Gestern sind zehen Meilen von hier bey McClure's Gap etliche In- 
dianerzu Jacob Peeple's Haus kommen, und haben sein Weib getoedet 
und zwei Kinder mit genommen ; der Knabe war 12 Jahraltund das 
Maedgen 2 Jahr alt. Ein alter Mann,Namens Solomon ein Schuhmach- 
er mangelt — 

Es ist nicht auszusprechen wie hefiig die Leute flichen mit ihren 
besten Zachen in die Festung. — Sauer's Zeitung, July, 1756. 

The distress of the frontier settlers had nearly reached its 
acme. An attempt to depict their sufferings, alarms, and 
fears, would prove a failure. In the fall of 1755, the coun- 
try west of the Susquehanna possessed three thousand men 
fit to bear arms ; and in August 1756, exclusive of the Pro- 
vincial forces, there w^ere not one hundred ; fear having dri- 
ven the greater part from their homes into the interior of the 
province. — Gordon's Pa. 430. 

Governor Morris, in his message to the Assembly, August 
16, 1756, says, " The people to the west of the Susquehanna, 
distressed by the frequent incursions of the enemy, and weak- 
ened by their great losses, are moving into the interior parts 
of the Province, and I am fearful that the whole county will 
be evacuated, if timely and vigorous measures are not taken 
to prevent it." — Votes of Assembly, iv. p. 504. 

The few who had not fled petitioned the Governor, Coun- 
cil and Assembly, for aid to protect them against the ravages 
of a restless, barbarous and merciless enemy. Their several 
petitions are given below. 

To the Honorable Robert Hunter Morris, Esq., Lieut. Gov. of Province 
of Pennsylvania. 
The address of part of the remaining inhabitants of Cumberland 
county, most humbly showeth, that the French and their savage allies 
have from time to time made several incursions into this county, have 
in the most inhuman and barbarous manner murdered great numbers 
of our people and carried others into captivity, and being greatly em- 



120 INTRODUCTION. 

boldened by a series of success, not only attempted, but also took Fort 
Granville on the 30th July last, then commanded by the late Lieutenant 
Edward Armstrong, and carried off the greatest part of the garrison, 
prisoners, from whom doubtless the enemy will be informed of the 
weakness of this frontier, and how incapable we are of defending 
ourselves against their incursions, which will be a great inducement 
for them to redouble their attacks, and in all probability force the re- 
maining inhabitants of this county lo evacuate it. Great numbers of 
the inhabitants are already fled, and others preparing to go off; finding 
that it is not in the power of the troops in pay of the government (were 
we certain of their being continued) to prevent the ravages of our 
restless, barbarous and merciless enemy. It is therefore greatly to be 
doubted that (without a further protection) the inhabitants of this 
county will shortly endeavor to save themselves and their effects, by 
flight, which must consequently be productive of considerable incon- 
veniencies to his Majesty's interest in general, and to the welfare of 
the people of this Province in particular. 

Your petitioners being fully convinced of your Honor's concern for 
a strict attachment to his Majesty's interest, have presumed to request 
that your Honor would be pleased to take our case into considera- 
tion, and, if agreeable to your Honor's judgment, to make application 
to his Excellency, General Loudon, that part of the troops now rais- 
ing for his Excellency's regiment may be sent to, and for some time, 
continued in some of the most important and advantageous posts in 
this county, by whose assistance we may be enabled to continue a fron- 
tier if possible, and thereby induce the remaining inhabitants, to se- 
cure, at least, a part of the immense quantity of grain which now lies 
exposed to the enemy and subject to be destroyed or taken away by 
them ; and also enable the Provincial troops to make incursions into 
the enemy's country, which would contribute greatly to the safety and 
satisfaction of your Honor's petitioners — And your petitioners, as in 
duty bound shall ever pray, &c. 

Francis West, John Welsh, James Dickson, Robert Erwin, Samuel 
Smith, Wm. Buchanan, Daniel Williams, John Montgomery, Thos. 
Barker, John Lindsay, Jas. Lindsay, Thos. Urie, Jas. Buchanan, Wm. 
Spear, Jas. Polock, And. Mclntyre, Robert Gibson, Garret McDaniel, 
Arthur Foster, Jas. Brandon, John Houston, Patrick McCollom, James 
Reed, Thos. Lockertt, And. Dalton, John Irwin, Wm. Blyth, Robt. Mil- 
ler, Wm. Miller, Jas. Young, Jno. Davis, John Mitchell, John Pattison, 
Samuel Stevens, John Fox, Chas. Pattison, John Foster, Wm. McCas- 
kry, And. Calhoun, Jas. Stackpole, Wm. Sebbe, Jas. Robb, Samuel An- 
derson, Robert Robb, Samuel Hunter, A. Forster, Nath. Smyth. 

Read in council August 21, 1756. 

August 24, 1756. 
The humble supplication of the remaining part of the inhab- 
itants of East Pennsborough township, in Cumberland county, let- 
ting your worship know some part of our melancholy state ; we are at 
present, by reason of the savage Indians, who have not only killed our 
christian neighbors, but are coming nearer to us in their late slaughter ; 
and almost every day, numbers of our frontiers are leaving their 
places and travelling further down among the inhabitants, and we are 



INTRODUCTION. 121 

made quite incapable of holding our frontiers good any longer, unless 
your worship can prevail with our Honorable Governor and Assembly 
to be pleased to send us speedy relief. May it please all to whom this 
shall come, to consider what an evil case we will be exposed to, in 
leaving our places, grain and cattle ; for we are not able to buy pro- 
visions for our families, much less for our cattle. And to live here we 
cannot, we are so weak handed, and those not removed are not pro- 
vided with guns and ammunition ; and we have agreed with a guard 
of fourteen men in number, and if it were in our power to pay for a 
guard, we should be satisfied ; but we are not able to pay them. 

Begging for God's sake, you may lake pity upon our families, and 
that their necessities may be considered by all gentlemen ttiat have 
charge of us. 

By the humble request of those who remain of the inhabitants of our 
township, to the Revd. Richard Peters, Secretary in Philadelphia. — 
Begging God to command a blessing on your endeavors. 

William Chesnut, John Sample, Francis McQuire, James McMuUen, 
Samuel McCormick, Tobias Hendrix, John McUormick, Rodger Wal- 
ton, Robert McWhinney, James Silver. 

Read in council August 28. 

From the following extracts, from the Provincial Records 
and Votes of Assembly, it is abundantly confirmed that the 
distress and alarm of the inhabitants, all along the frontier 
settlements, was very great indeed. 

September 6, 1756, a petition was presented and read from the Rev. 
John Steel, captain of a company at ('onococheague, in the pay of the 
Province, representing the most miserable condition to which the upper 
part ot Cumberland (now Franklin) county, bordering on Maryland 
was reduced to, by the ravages of the Indians, and the numbers killed 
and taken into captivity. 

Another petition from a number of inhabitants of Lurgan and Hope- 
well'townships, (the former now in Franklin, the latter in Cumberland 
county) setting forth their extreme distress, and praying for relief. 

Another petition from the inhabitants of Shippensburg and adjacent 
townships, setting forth Ihar miserable condition, and offering to finish 
a fort already begun by the late governor, if they shall be allowed men 
and ammunition to defend it. 

Mr. Joseph Armstrong, member of Assembly, and Adam Hoops, com- 
missary of provisions for the supply of the forces in Cumberland coun- 
ty, attending with a young man, who was taken prisoner by the 
Indians and had made his escape : they were examined as to the truth 
of jthe several matters mentioned in the petitions, and they confirmed 
the same, saying further, that a year ago there were three thousand 
men fit to bear arms, livers in that county, and now, exclusive of the 
Provincial forces, they were certain they did not amount to one hun- 
dred— that there never was, in the memory of man, a more abundant 
harvest, than after the burning of fort Granville by the Indians, which 
was done whilst the country people, guarded by detachments of the 
forces, were employed in reaping. The farmers abandoned their plan- 
tations, and left what corn was not then stacked or carried into barns^^ 

11 



122 INTRODUCTION. 

to perish on the ground, and that it was their opinion, if more force was 
not sent into those frontiers, or if Colonel Armstrong should miscarry, 
the west side of Susquehanna would be entirely abandoned. — Provin. 
Rec. P. p. 20. 

Carleil, August, 1756. 

" Wir hoeren das am 5ten August zwei Soldaten seyen 
getoedet und einer verwundet, zwei Meilen von McDowell's 
Fort. Und am 7ten ward einer getoedet mit Namen Dinwid- 
die, und einer gefangen, der aber wieder eschapirt. Am aten 
sey Casper Walter getoedet, aber nicht gescalpt ; und vier 
von seinen Kindern und John Mecky seine Tochter haben sie 
rait genommen. Es waren nur vier Indianer gusehen. Alle 
Einwohner in der ganzen Jegend sind sehr bestuertzt und in 
Unordnung. An der Juniata und in Sherman's Thai sind alle 
Leute weggeflohen, und die Plaetzesind leer." 

In the early part of November, some Indians were in the 
upper part of Cumberland (Franklin) county, only a few 
miles from McDowell's mill, where they barbarously mur- 
dered and mangled a number of inhabitants- They killed, and 
also carried off, the following named soldiers ; James McDon- 
ald, William McDonald, Bartholomew McCafferty, and An- 
thony McQuoid ; soldiers missing, James Corkem and Wil- 
ham Cornwall. The following inhabitants were killed ; John 
Culberlson, Samuel Perry, Hugh Kerrell, John Woods, with 
his wife and mother-in-law, and Elizabeth Archer ; inhabit- 
ants missing, four children belonging to John Archer, Samuel 
Neely, a boy, and James McQuoid, a child. 

A German writer notices the same incidents as follows : 

Cauleil den 8ten Novem. 1756. 

Dei vergangene Woche ist cin Parthei Indianer in dem 
obern Theil dieser County gewesen etliche Meilen von Mc- 
Dowell's Muehl, da haben sie viele Menschen barbarisch ge- 
mordert, und Kinder mit genommen. 

Vier Soldaten sind todt gefunden und zwei mangeln. Sie- 
ben Einwohner sind todt. Sechs Kinder und Samuel Neely 
mangeln. Samuel Perry wolte sein Pferd ins Feld thun, und 
da er larg ausblieb, gingen 14 Maun ihn zu suchen, und fan- 
den ihn gescalp aned mit Laub zugedeckt ; als sie zurueck 
kamen, lagen bey 80 Indianern im Busch; als sie die Indianer 
erblickt, schossen sie auf sie ; aber die Indianer schossen vier 



INTRODUCTION. 123 ' 

Soliiaten todt, und zwei mangeln noch.'' — Sauer^s Zeit- 
ung, 

Reading township, (Adams co.) Aug. 21, 1756. 
Honored Sir : 

I send your Honor the enclosed petition, at the solicitation of a great 
number of people. The complicated distresses of these poor creatures 
are beyond expression. What few inhabitants remained in Cumber- 
land are daily flying from thence ; so that in three or four days it will 
be totally relinquished. 

Marsh creek is now the frontier, and such a panic has seized the 
hearts of people in general, that unless we have soon some favorable 
turn in our affairs, I am afraid the enemy need not long be at the pains 
to dispute a claim to these two counties. 

I hope your Honor will pardon this freedom, and do me the justice 
to believe that I am, with gratitude and truth. 

Your Honor's most obedient 
and humble servant, 

Tho. Bahtoit. 
Richard Peters, Esq. 

Not only was the country west of the Susquehanna left 
nearly desolate and deserted, but also on the east side of the 
river, numerous murders were committed, and plantations 
abandoned. When imagination fails to conceive the peril and 
distress of the settlers of Paxton, Hanover, Derry, and other 
townships, then in Lancaster (now Dauphin and Lebanon 
counties) vain would it be to attempt to portray the scenes of 
horror. Some idea, however, may be formed of their condi- 
tion from the subjoined letters : 

Derby Township, 9lh Aug. 1756. 
Dear Sir: 

There is nothing but bad news every day. Last week there were 
two soldiers killed and one wounded about two miles from Manady 
fort; and two of the guards that escorted the batteaux were killed; 
and we may expect nothing else daily, if no slop be put to these sava- 
ges. We shall all be broken in upon in these parts — the people are 
going off daily, leaving almost their ail behind them; and as for my 
part, I think a littl-e time will lay the country waste by flight, so that 
the enemy will have nothing to do but take what we have worked for. 
Sir, your most 

Humble servant, 

James Galbbkath. 
Ed. Shippen, Esq. 

Dbert Township, 10th Aug. 1756. 
Honored Sir; 

There is nothing here almost every day but murder committed bj 



124 INTRODUCTION. 

the Indians in some part or orher. About five miles above me, at 
Manady gap, there were two of the Province soldiers killed, one 
wounded. There were but three Indians, and ihey came in among ten 
of our men and committed the murder, and went off safe. The name 
or sight of an Indian makes almost all, in these parts, tremble — their 
barbarity is so cruel where they are masters ; for by all appearances, 
the devil communicates, God permits, and the French pay, and by that 
the back parts, by all appearances, will be laid waste by flight with 
those -who are gone and going, more especially Cumberland county. 
Pardon my freedom in th's, wherein I have done amiss. 
Sir, your most 

Humble servant, 

James Galbrfath. 
P. S. I am in want of the pistols. 

The above is fully corroborated by the following : 

Hanoveh, Aug. 7, 1756. 
To Edward Shippen, Esq. 

Sir : Yesterday, Jacob Ellis, a soldier of Capt. Smith's, at Brown's 
about two miles and a half over the first mountain, just within the gap, 
having some wheat growing at that place, prevailed with his officers 
fur some of the men, to help him to cut some of the grain ; accordingly 
ten of them went, set guards, and fell to work ; at about ten o'clock, 
they had reapt down, and went to the head to begin again, and before 
they had all well begun, three Indians having crept up to the fence 
just behind them, fired upon them and killed the corporal, and another 
who was standing with a gun in one hand and a bottle in the other was 
wounded — his left arm is broken in two places ; so that his gun fell, 
he being a little more down the field than the rest; those who were 
reaping had their fire arms about half way down the field, standing at 
a large tree ; as soon as the Indians had fired and without loading their 
guns, leaped over the fence right in amongst the reapers — one of them 
had left his gun behind on the out side of the field — they all ran 
promiscuously, while the Indians were making a terrible halluo, and 
looked more like the devil than Indians. The soldiers made for their 
fire arms, and as three of them stood behind the tree with their arms, 
the Indian that came wanting his gun, came within a few yards of 
them, and took up the w'ounded soldier's gun, and would have killed 
another, had not one who perceived him, fired at him, so that he drop- 
ped the gun. The Indians tied, and in going ofi", two soldiers standing 
about a rod apart, an Indian ran through between ihem,lhey both fired 
at him, yet he escaped ; when the Indians were over the fence, a sol- 
dier fired at one of them ; upon which he stooped a little — the three 
Indians escaped. Immediately after leaving the field, they fired one 
gun, and gave a halloo. The soldiers hid the one that was killed, went 
home to the fort, found James Brown, who lives in the lort, and one 
of the soldiers, missing. 

The Lieutenant, accompanied by some more, went out and brought 
in the dead man ; but still Brown was missing. Notice was given on 
that night, I went up next morning with some hands — Captain Smith 
had sent up more men from the other fort ; these went out next morn- 
ing, against I got there word was come in that they had found James 



INTRODUCTION. 125 

Brown, killed and scalped, I went over with them to bring him home ; 
he was killed with the last shot, about twenty rods from the field — his 
gun, his shoes and jacket carried off. The soldiers who found him, 
said that they tracked the three Indians to the second mountain, and 
they found one of the Indian's guns a short distance from Brown's 
corpse, as it had been not worth much. They showed me the place 
where the Indians fired through the fence; and i\ was just eleven yards 
from the plac^ where the dead man lay. The rising ground, above 
the field, was clear of standing timber and the grubs low, so that they 
had kept a look out. 

The above account, you may depend upon. We have almost lost all 
hopes of every thing, but to move off and lose our crops that we 
have cut with so much difficulty. 

I am your 

Honor's servant, 

Adam Rehd. 

Some time in the latter part of October, the Indians again 
returned into Hanover township, where they murdered, under 
circumstances of much cruelty, several families, among whom 
was one Andrew Berryhill. On the 22d October, they killed 
John Craig and his wife, scalped them both, burnt several 
houses, and carried off a lad, about thirteen years old. The 
next day they scalped a German, whose name has not been 
given. 

Many of the settlers had fled, and not a few were killed. 
The writer examined the tax collector's duplicate of several 
townships, for 1756, and found, from entries made in these, by 
the collectors, that in East Hanover township, the following 
had fled from their houses : 

'^AnH'rew Karsnits, John Gilliland, John McColloch, Wal- 
ter McFarland, Robert Kirkwood, William Robison, Valen- 
tine Stoffolbeim, Andrew Cleaman, Rudolph Fry, Peter Wal- 
mer, John McCulloch, James Rafter, Moses Vance, John 
B rower, Frederick Noah, Jacob Moser, Philip Mauerer, 
Barnhart Beshore, Jacob Beshore, Matthias Beshore, Wil- 
liam McCullough, Philip Calp, Casper Yost, Conrad Cleck, 
(christian Albert, Daniel Moser, John McClure, John Ander- 
son, Thomas Shirley, James Graham, Barnet McNett, An- 
drew Brown, William Brown, Andrew McMahon, Thomas 
Hume, Tlomas Strean, John Hume, Peter Wolf, Henry 
Kuntz, William Watson, John Stuart, John Porterfield, Da- 
vid Strean, John Strean, Andrew McCrath, James McCurry, 
Conrad Rice, Alexander Swan, John Grean. 

Andrew Berrihill, killed ; Samuel Ainsworth's son was ta- 
ll* 



126 INTRODUCTION. 

ken ; John Craig, killed, and a boy taken captive. The whole 
tax duplicate contains about a hundred names. 

In West Hanover the following persons had fled, viz : 
John Gordon, Richard Johnson, Alexander Barnet, James 
McCaver, Robert Porterfield, Philip Robison, John Hill, 
Thomas Bell, Thomas Maguire, William McCord, Robert 
Huston, Benjamin Wallace, Wilham Bennett, Bartholomew 
Harris, John Swan, James Bannon, William McClure, Thom- 
as McClure, John Henry, James Riddle, Widow Cooper, 
David Ferguson, Widow de Armand, James Wilson, Samuel 
Barnetts, James Brown, Widow McGowin, Samuel Brown, 
Thomas Hill, Jane Johnston was killed.* 

The following letter from the pen of Adam Reed, Esq., 
dated at Hanover, October 14, 1756, may cast some addi- 
tional light on this gloomy subject. The letter is addressed 
to Edward Shippen, Esq., and others : 

" Friends and Fellow Subjects : 

I send you in a few lines, the melancholy condition of the frontiers of 
this county. Last Tuesday, the 12th inst. ten Indians came on Noah Fred- 
erick, while ploughing, killed and scalped him, and carried away three 
of his children that were with him — the eldest but nine years old — and 
plundered his house and carried away every thing that suited their 
purpose ; such as clothes, bread, butter, a saddle, and a good rifle gun, 
&c. — it being but two short miles to Captain Smith's fort, at Swatara 
gap, and a little better than two miles from my house. 

Last Saturday evening, an Indian came to the house of Philip Robe- 
son, carrying a green bush before him — said Robeson's son being on 
the corner of his Fort, watching others that were dressing flesh by 
him — the Indian perceiving that he was observed, fled ; the watchman 
fired, but missed him. This being about threc-fourlhs of a mile from 
Manady Fort; and yesterday morning, two miles from Smith's Fort, at 
Swatara, in Bethel township, as Jacob Farnwal was going from the 
house of Jacob Meylin to his own, was fired upon by the two Indians, 
and wounded, but escaped with his life ; and a little after, in said town- 
ship, as Frederick Henly and Peter Sample were carrying away their 
goods in wagons, were met by a parcel of Indians, and all killed, lying 
dead in one place, and one man at a little distance. But what more 
has been done, has not come to my ears — only that the Indians were 
continuing their murders ! 

The frontiers are employed in nothing but carrying oflT their eflTects ; 
so that some miles are now waste ! We are willing, but not able, 
without help — you are able, if you be willing, (that is including the 
lower parts of the county) to give such assistance as will enable us to 
recover our waste land. You may depend upon it, that without assis- 
lance, we, in a few days, will be on the wrmig side of you ; for I am now 

• Tax Duplicate for 1756, at Lancaster. 



INTRODUCTION. 127 

on the frontier, and I fear that by to-morrow night, I will be left two 
miles. 

Gentlemen, consider what youwill do, and don't be long about it .■ and let 
not the world say, that we died as fools died ! Our hands are not tied, 
but let us exert ourselves, and do something for the honor of our coun- 
try, and the preservation of our fellow subjects. I hope you will com- 
municate our grievances to the lower parts of our country; for surely 
they will send us help, if they understood our grievances. 

I would have gone down myself, but dare not, my family is in such 
danger. I expect an answer by the bearer, if possible.* 
I am, gentlemen. 

Your very number servant, 

AnAM RssD. 

P. S. Before sending this away, I would mention, I have just recei- 
ved information, that there are seven killed and five children scalped 
alive, but have not the account of their names. 



CHAPTER VIII. 

INDIAN MASSACRES (1757-62). 

Negotiation? of peace, «&c.~Frontier settlers are still in constant 
alarm— Indians murder and abduct persons at Rocky Springs— Mc- 
ICinney, Patterson, and others killed— List of killed in various parts 
in 1757 — A number of persons killed in Cisne's and in Steen's fields 
— Several men supposed to be killed near Hendrick's (now Bow- 
man's) — Indians commit murders in Lancaster (now Dauphin) conn- 
ty— Long's son, Mrs. Williams, Smelley, Mr. Mauerer, Beaty, Mack- 
ey, Barnet and others killed— Murders committed in Hanover town- 
ship — William Martin killed near Hunter's fort; Busse's letter touch- 
ing it — Watt and McKennet, and others killed and scalped—Indians 
surprise Bard's house in York (.Adams) county; Bard and family 
abducted; Potter killed— Gallady, Dunwiddie, Crawford and others 
massacred. 

Stimulated, and abetted by the French, both Shawanese 
and Delaware Indians kept up their hostilities till 1757, when 
negotiations for peace commenced with Teedyuscung, the 

•Prov. Rec. P. p. 69. 



128 INTRODUCTION. 

chief of the Delaware and Shawanese tribes, on the Susque- 
hanna, when their fury abated somewhat. But the French 
and Western Indians still roamed in small parties over the 
country, committing many sanguinary murders, and taking 
captives all whom they could surprise. The frontier settlers 
were kept in continual alarm. 

"March 29, 1757, the Indians made a breach at Rocky Springs, 
where one woman was killed and eleven taken prisoners. 

"April 2, William McKinley and his son were killed. McKinley had 
sought shelter with his family at Chambers' fort — ventured out one day 
in company with his son to visit his dwelling and plantation, where the 
Hallowell paper mill is, on the creek below Chambersburg. They were 
discovered however by the Indians, und both killed and scalped, and 
their dead bodies brought to the fort and buried." 

We hear, says the Pa. Gazette, April 7, 1757, from Con- 
ococheague, Cumberland county, (Franklin) that on last 
week three families were cut off there by the Indians ; the 
people most barbarously used. The names of two of the fa- 
milies, are Campbell and Patterson. 

April 17, 1757, Jeremiah Jack, near Potomac, was taken captive, 
and two of his sons killed, and one man and one woman drowned in 
Potomac endeavoring to make their escape. 

April 23, 1757, John Martin and William Blair was killed, and Pat- 
rick McClelland wounded in the shoulder, who afterwards died of his 
•wound, near Maxwell fort, Conococheague. 

May 14, 1757, Major Campbell and one Tussey, was killed or taken 
captive with fourteen others, near Potomac. 

May 12, 1757, John Martin and Andrew Paul, both old men, taken 
from Conococheague. 

May 13, 1757, William Walker and another man were killed near 
McCormick's fort, at Conodoguinet. 

May 16, 1757, eleven persons killed at Paxton by the Indians. 

June 6, two men killed and five taken near Shippensburg. 

June 9, James Holiday and fourteen men killed and taken; James 
Long's son and another man killed in a quarry at fort Frederick; nine- 
teen men kilted in a mill at Quetapahely, and four men killed in Shear- 
man's valley, all in one week. 

Fort Mohiiis, 10th June, 1757. 
At one o'clock this morning I received an express from Fort Loud- 
on, with intelligence of Lieut. Hollyday's having set out with seventy- 
five men, to reconnoiler the woods; and at the deserted house of one 
McClellan, in a place called the Great Cove, part of the men with the 
Lieut, went into the said house, whilst the residue were at some dis- 
tance drinking water from the spring, and were unhappily surprised, 
and surrounded by a partv of Indians, said to be one hundred in num- 
ber. Ten of our parly got into Loudon before the express set out ; their 



INTRODUCTION. 129 

account is so imperfect that little dependance can be laid on it. They 
saw one of the soldiers fall and another was taken captive.— Provin. 
Rec. P. 310. 

John ARMSTRONe. 
Col. Stanwix. 

June 17, one man killed at Cuthbertson's fort; four men shot at the 
Indian while scalping the man. 

June 24, 1757, Alexander Miller killed and two of his daughters tak- 
en from Conococheague ; John Kenedy badly wounded, and Gerhart 
Pendergras's daughter killed at fort Litileton. 

July 2, one woman and four children taken from Trent's gap ; same 
day one Springson killed near Logan's mill, Conococheague. 

July 8, 1757, two boys taken from Cross's fort, Conococheague. 

July 9, 1757, Trooper Wilson's son killed at Aiitictum creek. I pre- 
sume this to be ihe man that I mentioned Ben. Dickson shot and shaked 
his scalp at his father, when he was creeping up to shoot a deer. 

July 18, six men killed or taken from near Shippensburg. These were 
reaping in Mr. John Cisney's field. Those killed were John Kirkpat- 
r'ck, Dennis Oneidon ; missing, John Cisney and three little boys, two 
of them his grand-sons, the other John Kirkpatrick's. 

July 19, some men killed and taken, reaping near Shippensburg. 
These were reaping in Mr. Joseph Steenson's field. Those killed were 
Joseph Mitchell, James Mitchell, William Mitchell, John Finlay, Rob- 
ert Steenson, Andrew Enslow, John Wiley, Allen Henderson and Wil- 
liam Gibson. Those missing or carried off, were Jane McCommon, 
Mary Minor, Janet Harper, and a son of John Finlay. Only one Indian 
was killed.* 

July, 1757, four men killed near Baker's, driving wagon to fort Fre- 
derick. 

July 10, 1757, ten soldiers killed at Clapham's fort. 

*^The Indian killed in Mr. Steenson's field, was perhaps the same 
whose scalp is mentioned in the following letter: 

Dated at Shippensburg, October 25, 1757. 
To Richard Peters, Esq. 
Sir— 
I was some time ago in Philadelphia in expectation of receiving a 
reward from the Commissioners, for an Indian scalp, but was quite 
disappointed. It ill suited me at the time to take so fatiguing and ex- 
pensive a journey. One might think common humanity might induce 
the gentlemen to allow some small matter, on that occasion, as I lost 
my husband and son, which has so sensibly atfected me in every re- 
spect, that I am rendered unable of providing the common necessaries of 
hfe. Your Honor gave me some hope when in town, that you would 
use your interest in endeavoring to prevail with the Commissioners to 
consider me, which I doubt not you will do, as it is part of your char- 
acter to relieve the distressed. Your endeavors to this purpose, I hope 
will not only heap blessings upon yourself, but, in a great measure re- 
lieve the pinching of one, who is 

Your most humble servant, 

Margaret Mitcubll. 



130 INTRODUCTION. 

July 27, 1757, one McKisson wounded, and his son taken from the 
South mountain. 

August 15, 1757, William Manson and his son killed near Cross's 
fort, Conococheague. 

August 17, 1757, William Waugh's barn was burnt in the Tract, 
York county, by Indians. 

August 19, 1757, fourteen people killed and taken from Mr. Cinky's 
congregation ; and one man killee near Harris' ferry. 

Sept. 1, 1757, James Watson and James Mullen went out on their 
farms, and on Saturday following Watson was found scalped ; the other 
supposed to be carried off. 

September 2, 1757, one man killed near Bigger's gap, and one Indian 
killed. 

Sept. 8. Two men went out to hunt horses near Tobias Hendricks, 
(Bowman's, i. e., Pennsboro' township, Cumberland county) and are 
supposed to be killed or carried off, as they have not been heard of 
since. 

September 9, 1757, one boy and a girl taken from Donegal. 

September 26, 1757, Robert Rush and John McCraken, with five oth- 
ers killed and taken captive near Chambersburg. 

November 9, 1757, John Woods, his wife and mother-in.law, and 
John Archer's wife were killed, four children taken, and nine men kill- 
ed near McDowell's fort. 

Extract fron a letter, dated Hanover, Lancaster county, Aug. 11, 1757. 

Last Thursday, John Andrew's wife, going to a neighbor's house, 
was surprised by six Indians, had her horse shot under her, and she 
and her child were carried off. On Saturday, in Bethel township, as 
John Winkleblech's two sons, and Joseph Fischbach, (a soldier in the 
pay of the Province,) went out about sunrise, to bring in the cows, 
they were fired upon by about fifteen Indians ; the two lads were kill- 
ed ; one of them was scalped ; the other got into the house before he 
died, and the soldier was wounded in the hand. 

The same morning, about seven o'clock, two miles below Ma- 
naday gap, as Thomas McQuire'sspon was bringing in some cows out 
of a field, a little way from the house, he was pursued by two In- 
dians, and narrowly escaped. The same day, in the middle of this 
township, four miles from the mountain, as Leonard Long's son was 
ploughing, was killed and scalped : on the other side of the fence, 
Leonard Miller's son was ploughing, he was made prisoner. 

John Graham, who lives near the gap of the Indian town creek, had 
a sieer killed, about sunrise, or before, and John Brown had two cows 
killed ; all except the first mischief done in one day ; so that last Sat- 
urday there must have been, at least, four parties of Indians in this 
township. 

Having notice of this on Sunday morning, I set out with four men, 
and we ranged till alter midnight. Monday morning I set out again, 
with forty men, intending to go over the mountain. We ranged the 
first day in the forest, and had intended to lie out on the mountain 
all night, but a heavy rain falling, we took to a house. On Tuesday 
morning we set out over the mountain to find tracks, if possible ; but 
we found not the least appearance of any, or Indians, over the moun- 



INTRODUCTION. 131 

tain, or in any of the waste houses ; so we returned on Tuesday ni^ht 

Monday, 8th. Many tracks were seen among the inhabitants, and in 
the waste houses, where the Indians lodged. In one of the houses they 
left a scalping knife, and had killed and scalped a man. Wednes- 
day, we intended to rest, but at about 12 o'clock had another alarm. 

Near Benjamin Clarke's house, four miles from the mill, two Indians 
surprised Isaac Williams's wife, and the wide » Williams, alias Smel- 
ley, killed and scalped the former, in sight of the house, she having 
run a little way, after three balls had been shot through her body ; the 
latter they carried away captive. 

About the same time, as George Maurer was cutting oats in George 
Scheffer's field, he was killed and scalped, two miles from the hill, so 
that it was not all done by one party. 

There is now such a severe sickness in these parts — the like has 
not been known — that many families can neither fight nor run 
away, which occasions great distress on the frontiers. Had it not been 
for forty men, which the province has in pay, in this township, little of 
the harvest could have been saved, and as the time for which they 
have been engaged is nearly elapsed, the inhabitants hope the govern- 
ment will continue them in the service, else the consequences must be 
dreadful.* 

We hear from a gentleman that six persons were taken away by the 
Indians from Lancaster county, 17th August.-j- 

Sinceour last, we learn from Lancaster, that there was nothing but 
murdering and capturing among them by the Indians. That on the 
'17th August, one Beatty was killed in Paxton — that the next day, James 
Mackey was murdered in Hanover, and William and Joseph Barnet, 
wounded. That on the same day were taken prisoners, a son of James 
Mackey, a son of Joseph Barnet, Elizabeth Dickey and her child, and 
the wife of Samuel Young and her child ; and that ninety-four men, 
women, and children, were seen flying from their places, in one body, 
and a great many more in smaller parties, so that it was feared the set- 
tlements would be entirely forsaken. 

We hear from Berks county, that several Indians have lately been 
seen near Fort Lebanon ; and that on Sunday, the 21st August, the 
house and barn of Peter Semelcke were burnt, and three of his chil- 
dren carried off; himself, wife and one child, being from home at the 
time. This was done within two miles of the fort.t 

Our accounts, in general, from the frontiers, are most dismal ; ail 
agreeing that some of the inhabitants are killed or carried ofl^; houses 
burnt and cattle destroyed daily — and that at the same time they are 
afflicted with severe sickness and die fast, so that in many places, 
they are neither able to defend themselves, when attacked, nor to rnn 
away.§ 

We hear from Lebanon township, Lancaster (now Lebanon) county, 
that on last Friday, four children were carried off by the Indians. — 
From Reading, Berks county, that on Thursday and Friday last, some 
people were murdered in Bern township, by the Indians, and others 
caried off. 

• PennsyWania Gazette, Aug. 1757. f Ibid, Aug. 11. 

4 Pennsylvania Gazette, September 1, 1757. § Ibid, September 8. 



132 INTRODUCTION. 

A letter from Hanover township, Lancaster county, dated October 1st 
1757, says that the children mentioned of having been carried off from 
Lebanon township, belonging to Peter Wampler, that they were going 
to the meadow for a load of hay ; and that the Indians took from the 
house what they thought most valuable, and destroyed what they could 
not take away, to a considerable value. 

In the same letter it is said, that the frontiers are i.^raost without in- 
habitants, and on that day, and on the day before, several creaiuree 
Avere killed by the enemy in Honover township, and that on Thursday 
before, four persons were killed in Berks county, and four made pri- 
soners, near the Northkill, by a party of Indians, supposed to be about 
fifty. • 

On the 25th of November, Thomas Robinson, and a son of Thomas 
Bell, were killed and scalped by the Indians, in Hanover township; 
bat that the Indians immediately went off after committing the murder.-|- 

To VV. Denny, Esq., Gov. & Com. Pa. 

HoNTEii's Fort, the 3d Oct. 1V67. 
May it please your Honor: 

In my coming back from ranging the Frontiers on Saturday, the 3d 
inst. I heard that the day before, twelve Indians were seen not far from 
here: as it was late and not knowing their further strength, f thought 
to go at daybreak next morning, with as many soldiers and batteaui 
men as I could gel ; but, in a short time, heard a gun fired off, and run- 
ning directly to the spot, found the dead body of one William Marlin 
who went into the woods to pick up chestnuts, where the Indians were 
lying in ambush. I ordered all ihe men to run into the woods, and we 
ranged till it got dark. The continual rain we have had hindered me 
from following them. A number of the inhabitants had come here to 
assist in pursuing the Indians, but the weather prevented them. There 
were only three Indians seen by some persons who were sitting before 
Mr. Hunter's door; and they say all was done in less than four min- 
utes. That same night I cautioned the inhabitants to be on their 
guard; and in the morning I ranged on this side of the mountain ; but, 
the next day, my men being iew in number, by reason of fourteen of 
them being sick, I could not be long from the garrison ; and it seems 
to me that there is a great number of the ^efiemy on this side of the 
river. 

The townships of Paxton and Derry have agreed to keep a guard 
sometime in the frontier houses, from Manady to Susquehanna; and 
expect that your Honor will be pleased to reinforce this detachment. 

If these townships should break up the communication between fori 
Augusta aud the inhabitants, they would be greatly endangered. 
I am, 
ii with great respect, &c.. 

Christian Bcsse. 

We have advices, says Pa. Gazette, Oct. 27, 1757, from 
Paxton, that on the 17th inst. as four of the inhabitants, near 

• Pennsylvania Gazette, October 6 and 13. f Ibid, Sept. 8, 1757. 



INTRODUCTION. 



133 



Hunter's Fort were pulling their Indian corn, when two of 
them, Alexander Watt and John McKennet were killed 
and scalped, their heads cut off; the other two scalp- 
ed. That Captain Work of the Augusta regiment, com- 
ing down with some men from Fort HaHfax, met the savages 
on Peters' mountain, about twenty of them ; when they fired 
upon him, at about forty yards distance, upon which his par- 
ty returned the fire, and put the enemy to flight, leaving be- 
hind them five horses, with what plunder they had got ; and 
that one of the Indians was supposed to be wounded, by the 
blood that was seen in their tracks. None of Capt. Works' 
men were hurt. 

The following letters from Colonel Stanwix, Colonel Arm- 
strong and others, are here introduced, giving some additional 
facts, as to the hostile incursions of the enemy, during the 
summer and autumn of 1757. 

In June 28, 1757, Stanwix writes from Carlisle, "1 march a Captain's 
piquet two or three times a week as scouting parties : I am throwing 
up some works round our camp, and if it may have no other use, it 
keeps our soldiers properly employed." A few days before (June 19) 
he wrote Governor Denny, "By this express I am to let you know 
that I only wait for wagons to march to Shippensburg ; but when I 
shall be able to set out it is impossible for me to say, as in two 
days notice I have yet been able to get but two wagons, and those 
my quartermaster stopped himself; however, the magistrates give me 
to hope I shall be supplied in a day or two. The reason of my mov- 
ing is the hearing of intelligence from Capt. Daworlhy, who com- 
mands at Fort Cumberland." — Prov. Rec. P. p. 338. 

Cahlisle, 11th July, 1757. 
Honored Sir : 

Your favor of the 7th insl. is come to hand, 'tis very satisfactory 
to me, that the disposition of these western troops when threatened 
with the approach of a large body of the enemy, has been agreeable to 
3 our Honor. 

Our people are returned from Rayslown without making any other 
discovery than the tracks of very small parties at a considerable dis- 
tance, though oui' spies were thirty miles on all hands from the Camp, 
so that I take the party tYom Duquesne only to have patrolled a certain 
distance and returned, or to have marched up the river towards Venan- 
^n. Capt. Dagworihy's spies from Fort Cumberland have also returned 
without making any discovery. 

I have received a letter from Mr. Peters, advisingof your Honor's 2d 
paragraph, in regard of giving every officer half a pistole, for each re- 
cruit enlisted after the 29th of June. I understand that to be given to 
defray recruiting expenses, and not as bounty money to the soldier; 
having already received orders to give a pistole bounty for three years 

12 



134 INTRODUCTION. 

or during war, hut will wait your Honor's further advice on that 
subject, lest my conception of the use of the half pistole be wrong. 

I will observe your Honor's orders with regard to returns of ani- 
munition, and how used, as frequently as the distant situation of 
those garrisons will admit. We frequently shoot at mark, but have 
not been able to perform some other parts of Indian exercise which 
I have in view, as it would have wasted more powder than we had 
to spare, and partly on account of the extraordinary fatigue we have 
had for these six weeks past, in pursuing small parties of the enemy, 
from whom we received alarms and some mischief almost every day. 
This moment I am informed that four people are killed near Tobias 
Hendricks ;* one at fort Frederick, and two boys captivated in the up- 
per part of this county. On Wednesday last Lieut. Armstrong marched 
■with forty soldiers, accompanied by Mr. Smith, the Indian interpreter, 
and ten Indians, into Shareman's valley, where some of the enemy had 
been discovered. They were joined by thirty of the country people 
who wanted to bring over their cattle from that place. On Thursday 
they found the tracks of eight of the enemy, and followed them with 
spirit enough until evening, when the tracks made towards this valley ; 
next morning the Cherokees discovered some tracks bearing off to the 
westward, upon which they said they were discovered, and that those 
bearing towards the westward were going to inform a body of the en- 
emy, which they said was not far off; upon which the Lieutenant told 
the interpreter that his orders particularly led him to make discovery 
of the enemy's encampment (if any such there was) and to know whe- 
ther any were drove off for their support. But two or three of the bra- 
vest of the Indians freely told the interpreter, that their young men 
were afraid, that the enemy discovered them, and therefore no advan- 
tage could at that time begot; nor could the interpreter prevail on 
them to stay any longer out. The Lieutenant reconnoitered the coun- 
try towards Juniata, and returned last night without any discovery 
of a lurking party of the enemy behind us. On Friday we had news 
of a boy being fired at by two Indians, about seven miles from this 
town, upon which Col. Stanwix sent out a picket. The Cherokees, 
with a few wearied soldiers who were here, again turned out, found 
the enemy's footing and followed it some miles, but could not make 
it out. We have had great rain and the creeks are very high, which 
has added much to the fatigue of our people. The harvest is now 
become the great object. This day I am fixing a plan for guarding 
as well as we can the inhabitants thro' that important season ; of 
which I shall advise your Honor in my next. Colonel Stanwix gives 
ammunition to every collected body of the inhabitants recommended 
to me by him. 

I am your Honor's 
most obedient and humble servant, 

John AttMSTHOHo. 

Gov. Denny. 

» Tobias Hendricks, now Mr. Bowman's on the turnpike road, two 
miles west of the Susquehanna— near Oyster's Point. 



INTRODUCTION. 135 

Carlisle, 25 July, 1757. 
May it please your Honor — 

For the security of the inhabitants in the harvest, I have strenu- 
ously recommended the people's working together in parties as large 
as possible; and have from William Maxwell's, near the temporary 
line, to John McCormick's near Susquehannah, placed about twenty 
guards, altering and changing the station, as well as the number of 
each guard, according to the necessity and convenience of the peo- 
ple. When a number of women and children happen to be in my 
fort, the guard stays with them, by which means all the men be- 
longing to 5uch garrison are enabled to labor; but when women and 
children are not with the party, then the soldiers are stationed with 
the reapers, keeping sentry around the field; whereby some skulking 
enemy have been discovered and repulsed; but such is the infatua- 
tion of the people, that they can't be prevailed on to convene in 
proper parties for their own safety, in consequence whereof the fol- 
lowing melancholy accidents have happened, please to read the list. 

Colonel Stanwix sends out his picket guards as often as they ap- 
pear to be of service, and has two out at this time. They are to 
patrol for three days, and are always accompanied by an officer and as 
many men from this battalion as at the time can be spared. 

Your Honor may remember that sundry departments from Colonel 
Wciser's Battalion being here last winter, and were led on our provis- 
ions, which together with unavoidable waste, and what was actually 
rotten, has for sonie days past brought to an end all the meat laid into 
those garrisons by the victuallers, since I wrote your Honor last upon 
the subject of provisions, (and some persons with money in their hands 
being fixed to defray incidental expenses). Colonel Stanwix has or- 
dered Adam Hoops to supply at this town ; and last week learning from 
Fort Loudon that twelve of their men had the flux, and not one pound 
of meat in garrison, and that Lyttleton had been obliged to purchase 
their present subsistence of meat from a country man who lives at that 
fort. I was again obliged to apply to Colonel Stanwix, without whose 
order no person would venture to send any thing to these forts. The 
Colonel ordered Mr. Hoops to provide cattle, salt, pork, and a little rice 
for the sick men, which I immediately sent off, under the best escort, 
we could collect, with orders how to provide the provisions among the 
garrisons. 

Doctor Blair is returned from Loudon and reports that only six of the 
men were bad of the disorder; that they are somewhat recovered : that 
it is very hard performing any cure without change of diet. Medicines 
are left in care of Lieutenant Lyon. While the surgeon was in town, 
he attended a soldier who was lately wounded by his own fusee's going 
off by accident. 

The surgeon complains, and requests me to write your Honor that 
he is not paid the daily allowance for which he agreed with the com- 
missioners, viz: 7s. 6(1. per day. I have ordered him to write the 
commissioners. 

In answer to Mr. Croghan's, dated at Philadelphia, I wrote him the 
Indian news. 

I have made known the allowance of half a pistole for each recruit, 
to serve three years or during the war. The old arms shall be collected 
to this place, and seat down as soon as possible. As hay, oats, &c., 



136 INTRODUCTION. 

continue oa hand, I must give the people what assistance can be spared 
until have your Honor's or Stanwix's orders to call them in. I hope the 
next post will bring orders for supporting the men. 
I am your Honor's 

most obedient and most humble servant, 

JouN Armstkong. 
Governor Denny. 

During the years 1758 and 1759, the murders coiTimitted 
within the limits of the counties of which a history is at- 
tempted, were not as frequent, though not less atrocious, as 
in the three or four preceding years. The Indians, however, 
still surprised the inhahitants on the frontier, and occasionally 
in the interior of the Province. In 1758 they made incur- 
sions in York (now Adams county,) killed some and abducted 
others. Among the number of those carried off was Rich- 
ard Bard, of whom, see an affecting narrative, in that part, 
when speaking of Adams county. Besides abducting Bard, 
the Indians continued their depredations and killed : 

May 21, 1758, one woman and five children taken from yellow 
breeches. 

May 23, 1758, Joseph Gallady killed ; his wife and one child taken 
from Conococheague. 

May 29, 1759, one Dunwiddie and Crawford shot two Indians in Car- 
rol's tract, York county. 

July 20, a boy ploughing at Sweetara was shot at by two Indians, 
one horse killed and the other wounded. 



CHAPTER IX. 

INDIAN MASSACRES — (1763-78). 

Pltin of attack, <fec. by the enemy — Upper part of Cumberland overrun 
by savages — Depredations committed — Settlers flee, and seek refuge 
at Bedford, Shippensburg, Carlisle, &c."-Alarm at Carlisle—Letters 
from Carlisle giving details — Massacres in various parts of the fron- 
tiers — Seely's letters— Bouquet's letter from Carlisle — Petition of in- 
habitants of Great Cove and Conococheague— Murders committed in 
Franklin county— Brown, a schoolmaster and his scholars killed— 
— Exhumation of relics— James Dysarl's daughters killed near Big 
Spring — Strimble killed near Bedford— Tull and others killed in Bed- 
ford county— Captain Philips and his men killed— Persons killed in 
Woodcock valley. 

After the treaty of 1758 with the Indians, at Easton, 
peace and friendship had been established between the Eng- 
lish and Indians; all fear of Indian barbarities vanished, and 
the minds of the people had been at rest for some time ; but 
the French war still continued, and cruel murders were occa- 
sionally committed upon the frontier settlers, by the Indians, 
till near the close of the war between the English and the 
French, in 1762 — for there had been a secret confederacy 
formed among the Shawanese, the tribes on the Ohio and its 
tributary waters, and about Detroit, to attack simultaneously, 
all the Engish posts and settlements on the frontiers. Their 
plan was deliberately and skilfully projected. The border 
settlements were to be invaded during harvest; the men, corn, 
and cattle to be destroyed, and the outposts to be reduced 
by famine, by cutting off their supplies — Pursuant to this 
plan, the Indians fell suddenly upon the traders, whom they 
had invited among them ; murdered many, and plundered the 
effects of a great number to an immense value. The fron- 
tiers of Pennsylvania, &c., were overrun by scalping parties, 
marking in their hostile incursions, the way with blood and 
devastation. 

The upper part of Cumberland was overrun by the sava- 
12* 



13S 

ges, in 1763, "wte set fire to houses, bams, corn, h&x and er- 
erv tbincT that vas combustible : the inhabitants were sur- 
prised and murdered "with the utmost crueltr and barbarity. 
Tbose -crho could, escaped — some to Bedford, vhere Captain 
Ourrr commanded a fiarrison at the same time, some "went to 
Shippensburs;. others to Carlisle, -where houses and stables 
-were crovded. Many of them sought shelter in Lancaster 
countT, some in York, in the woods, with their families and 
their cattle. Some staid vrith their rektives, and never re- 
turned to the place from which they had fled. 

A gentleman in writing from Carlisle, July 5, i76o, to 
Secretary Peters, says: 

On the momino; of yesterday, horsemen were seen rapidly 
passing thi-ough Carlisle. One man rather fatigued, who 
stopped to E^et some water, hastil » replied to the questions. 
What news ? *•' Bad enough, Presque Ish, Le Beuf and Te- 
•nantrr. had been captured, their garrisons massacred, with the 
exception of one officer and seven men, who fortunately made 
tiieir escape from Le Beuf. Fort Pitt was bnskly attacked 
on the 22d of June, but succeeded in repelling the assailants,*' 
thus saving, put spurs to his horse and was soon out of si^ht. 
From others I have accounts that the Bedford militia have 
succeeded m savine; fort Licj-onier. jsotbrng could exceed 
the terror w^hich prevailed from house to house, from town 
to town. The road was nearly covered with women and 
children fiying to Lancaster and Philadelphia. 

The Revd. Thomson, Pastor of the Episcopal church, 
went at the head of his congregation, to protect and encour- 
a£^e them on the way. A few retired to the Breastworks 
for safetT. The alarm once given could not be appeased. — 
We have done all that men can do to prevent disorder. All 
OTir hopes are turned upon Bouquet. 

Thoucfh, as the letter writer says, all their hopes were 
turned upon Bouquet, the affrighted inhabitants, were so 
panic struck, that they had not prepared a convoy of provi- 
sion, when the Colonel arrived at Carlisle, to enable him to 
march westward. At the time a great number of the plan- 
tations and mills were destroyed, and notwithstanding the 
province had endeavored to save the harvest by raising seven 
hundren men to gxiard the frontiers, in many places the full 
ripe wheat and r\e crops stood waving in the field, soliciting 
tte hand of the reaper. The inhtibitantE in the greatest part 



TSTRODUCnOS. 139 

of the county of Cumberland, through what Bouquet had to 
pass with his army, was deserted, and the roads were cov- 
ered with families destitute of the necessaries of life, flying 
from their homes. The supplies of provisions, horses and 
carriages, had become precarious, whilst the comaander was 
required by humanity to apportion his own stock to relieve 
the sufferers. But after eight days' -active exertion on the 
part of himself and agents, provisions and carriages were" 
procured, with assisfance from the interior part of the 
country. 

The Colonel then proceeded with about five hundred men, 
his first object was to relieve fort Ligonier — and then pro- 
ceeded further westward. 

The following extracts of letters, written at the time, and 
published in the Pennsyivania Gazette, in the month of July, 
1763, gives detailed accounts of the incursions and depreda- 
tions of the savage enemy : 

CiaxiSLK, July 12, 1763. 

I embrace this first leisnre, since yesterday morning, to transmit yoa 
a brief accoant of oar present state of affair? here, which indeed is very 
distressing; every day almost afibrding some fresh object ro awaken 
the compassion, alarm the fears, or tindle into resentment and ven- 
geance, every sensible breast, while fiyinsf families, obliged :o abandon 
house and possession, to save their lives by a hasty escape ; moaming 
widows, bewailing their hasbands surprised and massacred by savage 
rage ; lender parents, lamenting the fruit ot their own bodies, cropt in 
the very bloom of life by a barbarous hand; with relations and acquain- 
tance pouring out sorrow for murdered neighbors and friends, present 
a varied scene of mingled distress. 

When, for some time, after striking at Bedford, the Indians appeared 
quiet, nor struck any other part of our frontiers, it became the prevailing 
opinion, that our forts and communication, were so peculiariy the ob- 
ject of their attention, that, till at least after harvest, there was little 
prospect of danger to our inhabitants over the hills; and to dissent 
from this generally received sentiment, was political heresy, and attrib- 
uted to timidity rather than judgment, till too early conviction has de- 
cided the point in the following manner : 

" On Sunday morning, the 10th inst.. about nine or ten o'clock, at the 
house of one William White, on Juniata, between thirty and forty miles 
hence, there being in said house four men, and a lad, the Indians came 
rushing upon them, and shot White at the door, just stepping out to see 
what the noise jieant. Our people then palled in White, and shut the 
door; but observing through a window, the Indians setting fire to the 
house, they attempted to force their way out at the door; but the first 
that Slept out being shot down, they drew him in, and again shut the 
door ; after which one attempting an escape out of a window on the 
loft, was shot through the head, and the lad wounded in the arm. The 



140 INTRODUCTIOif. 

only one now remaining. William Riddle, broke a hole through the roof 
of the house, and an Indian who saw hira looking out, alleged he was 
about to fire on him, withdrew, which afforded Riddle an opportunity 
to make his escape. The house with the other four in it was burned 
down, as one McMachen informs, who was coming to it, not suspect- 
ing Indians, and was by them fired at and shot through the shoulder, 
but made his escape. 

The same day about dinner time, at about a mile and a half from said 
White's, at the house of Robert Campbell, six men being in the house, 
as they were dining, three Indians rushed in at the door, and after firing 
among them, and wounding some, they tomahawked in an instant, one 
of the men ; whereupon one George Dodd's, one of the company, sprang 
back into the room, took down a rifle, shot an Indian through the body, 
who was just presenting his piece to shoot him. The Indian being 
mortally wounded staggered, and letting his gun fall, was carried off 
by three more. Dodd's, with one or two more, getting upon the loft, 
broke the roof, in order to escape, and looking out, saw one of the com- 
pany, Stephen Jeffries, running, but very slowly, by reason of a wound 
in the breast, and an Indian pursuing ; and it is thought he could not 
escape, nor have we heard of him since, so that it is past dispute, he 
also is murdered. The first that attempted getting out of the loft was 
fired at and drew back ; another altempiing was shot dead ; and of the 
six, Dodd's the only one made his escape. The same day about dusk, 
about six or seven miles up Tuscarora, and about twenty-eight or thirty 
miles hence, they murdered one William Anderson, together with a boy 
and girl all in one house. At White's were seen at least five, some say 
eight or ten Indians, and at Campbell's about the same number. On 
Monday, the 11th, a party of about twenty-four went over from the up- 
per part of Shearman's valley, to see how matters were. Another party 
of twelve or thirteen went over from the upper part of said val- 
ley ; and Colonel John Armstrong, with Thomas Wilson, Esq., and a 
party of between thirty and forty from this town, to reconnoitre and as- 
sist in bringing the dead. 

Of the first and third parties we have heard nothing yet ; hut of the 
party of twelve, six are come in, and inform that they passed through 
the several places in Tuscarora, and saw the houses in flames, or burnt 
entirely down. That the grain that had been reaped the Indians burnt 
in shocks, and had set ihe fences on fire where the grain was unreap- 
ed ; that the hogs had fallen upon and mangled several of the dead bo- 
dies ; that the said company of twelve, suspecting danger, durst not 
stay to bury the dead ; that after they had returned over the Tuscarora 
mountain, about one cr two miles on this side of it, and about eighteen 
or twenty from hence, they were fired on by a large party of Indians, 
supposed about thirty, and were obliged to fly ; that two, viz : William 
Robinson and John Graham, are certainly killed, and four more are 
missing, who it is thought, have fallen into the hands of the enemy, as 
they appeared slow in flight, most probably wounded, and the savages 
pursued with violence. What farther mischief has been done, we have 
not heard, but expect every day and hour, some more^messages of me- 
lancholy news. 

In hearing of the above defeat, we sent out another party of thirty or 
upwards, commanded by our high sheriff, Mr. Dunning, and Mr. Wil- 
liam Lyon, to go iu quest of the enemy, or fall in with and reinforce 



INTRODUCTION. 141 

our other parlies. There are also a number gone out from about three 
miles below this, so that we now have over the hills upwards of eighty 
or ninety volunteers scouring ihe woods. The inhabitants of Shear- 
man's valley, Tuscarora, &c. are all come over, and the people of this 
valley, near the mountain, are beginning to move in, so that in a few 
days there will be scarcely a house inhabited north of Carlisle. Many 
of our people are greatly distressed, through want of arms and ammu- 
nition ; and numbers of those beat off their places ; have hardly money 
enough to purchase a pound of powder! 

Our women and children, I suppose must move downwards, if the 
enemy proceed. To-day a British vengeance begins to rise in the 
breasts of our men — One of them, that fell from among the twelve, as 
he was just expiring, said to one of his fellows, " Hoc take my gun, and 
kill the first Indian you see, a)id all shall be axil !" 

Extract of another letter from Carlisle July 13, 1763. 

Last night Colonel Armstrong returned. He left the party who pur- 
sued further, and found several dead, whom they buried in the best 
manner they could, and are now all returned in — From what appears, 
the Indians are travelling from one place to another, along the valley, 
burning the farms, and destroying all the people they meet with. This 
day gives an account of six more being killed in the valley, so that, 
since last Sunday morning, to this day, twelve o'clock, we have a pret- 
ty authentic account of the number slain, being twenty-five, and four or 
five wounded. The Colonel, Mr. Wilson and Mr. Alricks, are now on 
the parade, endeavoring to raise another party, to go out and succor 
the Sheriff and his party consisting of fifty men, which marched yes- 
terday, and I hope they will be able to send off immediately twenty 
good men. The people here, I assure vou, want nothing but a good 
leader, and a little encouragement, to make a very good defence. 

Our advices from Carlisle, says the Editor of the Pa. Gazette of July 
28, are as follows, viz: That the party under the Sherifj", Mr. Dunning, 
mentioned in our last, fell in with the enemy, at the house of one Al- 
exander Logan, in Shearman's valley, supposed to be about fifteen, or 
upwards, who had murdered the said Logan, his son, and another man 
about two miles from said house, and mortally wounded a fourth, who 
is since dead ; and that at the time of their being discovered they were 
rifling the house, and shooting down the cattle, and it is thought, about 
to return home with the spoil they had got. That our men, on seeing 
them, immediately spread themselves from right to left, with a design 
to surround them, and engaged the savages with great courage, but 
from their eagerness rather too soon, as some of the parly had not 
got up when the skirmish began ; that the enemy returned our first fire 
very briskly; but our people, regardless of that, rushed upon them, 
when they fled, and were pursued a considerable way, till thickets se- 
cured their escape, four or five of them it was thought being mortally 
wounded ; that our parties had brought in with them what cattle they 
could collect, but that great numbers were killed by the Indians, and 
many of the horses that were in the valleys carried off; that on the 
31st inst., the morning, news was brought of three Indians bemg seen 
about 10 o'clock in the morning, one Pummeroy and his wife, and the 



142 INTRODUCTION. 

•wife of one Johnson, were surprised in a house, between Shippensburg 
and the North mountain, and left there for dead ; but that one of the 
women when found, shewing some signs of life, was brought to Ship- 
pensburg, where she lived some hours in a most miserable condition, 
being scalped, one of her arms broken, and her scull fractured with the 
stroke of a tomahawk ; and that since the 10th inst., there was an ac- 
count of fifty-four persons being killed by the enemy ! 

That the Indians had set fire to houses, barns, corn, wheat and rye, 
hay; in short, to every thing combustible; so that the whole coun- 
try seemed to be in one general blaze ; that the miseries and distresses 
of the poor people were really shocking to humanity, and beyond the 
power of language to describe : that Carlisle was become the barrier, 
not a single inhabitant being beyond it ; that every stable and hovel in 
the t('wn was crowded with miserable refugees, who were reduced to a 
state of beggary and despair; their houses, cattle and harvest destroy- 
ed ; and from a plentiful, independent people, they were become real 
objects of charity and commiseration ; that it was most dismal to see 
the streets filled with people, in whose countenances might be discov- 
ered a mixture of grief, madness and despair; and to hear, now and 
then, the sighs and groans of men ; the disconsolate lamentations of 
women, and the screams of children, who had lost their nearest and 
dearest relatives ; and that on both sides of the Susquehanna, for soane 
miles, the woods were filled with poor families, and their cattle, who 
made fires, and lived like savages, exposed to the inclemencies of the 
weather. 

Extract of a Letter, dated Carlisle, July 30, 1763. 
On the 25th a considerable number of the inhabitants of Shearman's 
valley went over, with a party of soldiers to guard them, to attempt 
saving as much of their grain as might be standing, and it is hoped a 
considerable quantity will yet be preserved. A party of volunteers, 
between twenty and thirty, went to the farther side of the valley, next 
to the Tuscarora mountain, to see what appearance there might be 
of the Indians, as it was thought they would most probably be there, 
if any where in the settlement; to search for, and bury the dead at 
Buffalo creek, and to assist the inhabitants that lived along, or near 
the foot of the mountain, in bringing ofl^ what they could, which ser- 
vices they accordingly performed, burying the remains of three per- 
sons ; but saw no marks of Indians having lately been there, excepting 
one track, supposed about two or three days old, near the narrows of 
Buffalo creek hill ; and heard some hallooing and firing of a gun at an- 
other place. A number of the inhabitants of Tuscarora valley go over 
the mountain to-morrow, with a party of soldiers, to endeavor to save 
part of the crops: five Indians weie seen last Sunday, about sixteen 
or seventeen miles from Carlisle, up the valley, towards the North 
mountain ; and two the day before yesterday, above five or six miles 
from Shippen?burg, who fired at a young man, but missed him. 

On the 25th of July, there were in Shippensburg, 1384 of our poor, 
distressed back inhabitants, viz : men 301, women 345, children 738; 
many of whom were obliged to lie in barns, stables, cellars, and under 
old leaky sheds, the dwelling houses being all crowded. 

In a letter dated Carlisle, 13th August, 1763, it is said that some In- 



INTRODUCTION. 148 

dians have lately been seen in Shearman's valley, and that on the lith 
the tracts of a party were found there, supposed to consist of eight or 
ten, coming through Shearman's valley, towards Carlisle, about twelve 
miles upwards. In another letter, dated Carlisle, 17ih August, mention 
is made that one John Martin, in the Great Cove, seeing an Indian 
coming up to a house where he was, fired at him, upon which the In- 
dian raised a yell, and took a tree; that Martin imagining there might 
be more Indians near him, ran to a company at work, and told what 
had happened, when they went to the place, found some blood and excre- 
ments ; from which they concluded he was shot through the bowels. 
They followed his track down to a bottom, where they saw the tracks 
of six or seven more ; but being a small party, pursued no further. In 
the same letter, it is also said, that a young man, at a plantation about 
nine miles from Carlisle, near the foot of the mountain, saw an Indian 
and fired at him at about fifty yards distance, but was not sure that he 
hit him. The Indian took a tree, and the lad went back a iittle way, 
in order to load again, but on his return could not find the Indian. He 
then alarmed the neighborhood; and the soldiers being all out in par- 
ties, covering the people gathering in grain, upwards of twenty young 
men turned out immediately from Carlisle, to scour the woods. 

It appears that this well matured onslaught by the Indians 
was equally cruel and extensive in the autumn of 1763, and 
drove the whites to acts of desperation, which only finds 
extenuation from the circumstance that there were no limits 
to the atrocities of the savages. Wherever they went, mur- 
der and cruelty marked their path — and, as will appear from 
the sequel, even the professed friendly Indians had fallen un- 
der strong suspicions, as being to some extent, concerned in 
these foul murders. 

In a letter from Jonas Seely, Esq., dated at Reading, Sep. 
11, 1763, it is said — We are all in a state of alarm. Indians 
have destroyed dwellings, and murdered with savage bar- 
barity their helpless inmates ; even in the neighborhood of 
Reading. Where these Indians came from and were going, 
we know not. These are dangerous times. Send us an 
armed force to aid our Rangers of Lancaster and Berks. 

In another, from the same gentleman, to Geo. Hamilton, 
dated Reading, Sep. 1763, he says — It is a matter of won- 
der, that Indians living among us for numbers of years, 
should suddenly become grum friends, or most deadly ene- 
mies ! Yet there is too much reason for suspicion. The 
Rangers sent in word, that these savages must consist of fifty, 
who travel in companies from five to twenty, visiting Wyalus- 
ing, Wichetunk, Nain, Big Island, and Conestogue, under 
the mark of friendly Indians. Our people have become al- 



144 INTRODUCTION. 

most infuriated to madness. These Indians were not even 
suspected of treachery, such had been the general confidence 
in their fidelity. The murders recently committed are of the 
mast aggravating description. Would it not be proper to 
institute an inquiry into the cause of our present distress ? — 
We are in want of force, and money ; we require aid. 

The Senecas, there is much reason to beheve, have been 
tampering with our Indians. 

In the early part of September, in the afternoon, eight 
well-armed Indians came to the house of John Fincher, a 
Quaker, residing north of the Blue mountain, in Berks county, 
about twenty-tour miles from Reading, and within three- 
quarters of a mile of a party of six men of Captain Kern's 
company of Rangers, commanded by ensign SchefFer. At 
the approach of the Indians, John Fincher, his wife, two 
sons and daughter, immediately went to the door and asked 
them to enter in and eat ; expressed their hopes that they 
came as friends, and entreated them to spare their lives. — 
The Indians were deaf to the entreaties of Fincher. Both 
parents and two sons were deliberately murdered ; their bo- 
dies were found on the spot. The daughter was missing af- 
ter the departure of the Indians, and it was supposed fiom 
the cries that we heard by the neighbors that she was also 
slain. 

A young lad, who lived with Fincher, made his escape, and 
notified ensign SchefFer, who instantly went in pursuit of these 
heartless, cold-blooded assassins. He pursued them to the 
house of one Millar, where he found four children murdered: 
the Indians having carried two others with them. Millar and 
his wife being at work in Ihe field, saved their lives by flight. 
Mr. Millar himself, was pursued nearly one mile by an Indian, 
who fired at him twice while in hot pursuit. SchefFer and his 
party continued their pursuit and overtook the savages, firing 
upon them. The Indians returned the fire, and a sharp, but 
short conflict ensued, — the ei emy fled, leaving behind them 
Millar's two children, and part of the plunder they had 
taken. 

These barbarous Indians had scalped all the persons whom 
they had murdered, except an infant, about two weeks old, 
whose head they had dashed against the wall, where the 
brains with clotted blood on the wall was a witness of their 



INTRODUCTION. 145 

cruelty. The consequence of this massacre was the deser- 
tion of all the settlements beyond the Blue mountain. 

A few days after these atrocious murders, the house of 
Frantz Hubler, in Bern township, eighteen miles from Read- 
ing, was attacked by surprise — Hubler was wounded ; his wife 
and three of his children were carried off, and three other of 
his children scalped alive ; two of these shortly afterwards 
died. 

" Murder and cruelty marked the path of these Indians. 
From the many acts of savage ferocity committed in Berks 
county, may be noticed that on the 10th of September, 1763, 
when five of these Indians entered the house of Philip MartlofF, 
at the base of the Blue mountain, murdered and scalped his 
wife, two sons and two daughters, burnt the house and barn, 
the stacks of hay and grain, and destroyec^ every thing of any 
value. Martlotf was absent from home, and one daughter 
escaped at the time of the murder, by running and secreting 
herself in a thicket. The father and daughter were left in 
abject misery."* 

July 6, 1763, Gov. Hamilton laid before the council a lettter received by 
express from Col. Bouquet. 

Carlisle, July 3d, 1763. 
Sir: — I am sorry to acquaint you that our Posts at^Presque Jsle, 
Le Beuf and Venango are cut off, and the garrisons massacred by the 
savages, except one ofHcer and seven men, who have escaped from Le 
Beuf. Fort Pitt was|brisk!y aUacked on 22d; (June) had only a lew men 
killed ; and wounded and dispersed the enemy. Fort Ligonier has 
likewise stood a vigorous attack, by means of some men who reinfor- 
ced that small garrison from the militia of Bedford. The Indians ex- 
pect a strong reinforcement lo make new attempts on these two posts. 
If the measures, I had the honor to recommend to you in my letters 
of yesterday, are not immediately put into execution, I foresee the ruin 
of the part of the Province on this side Susquehannah ; and as York 
county would be covered by Cumberland, I think they ought join in 
assisting to build some posts, and saving the harvest — It would not be 
less necessary to send immediately arms and ammunition to be distri- 
buted to the inhabitants to defend their reapers. 
I have the honor to be, 

Sir, your most obedient, 

Humble servant, 

Henry BouauET.f 

The refugees, who had resorted lo Carlisle, Sec, were re- 

• See Votes of Assembly, vol. v. p. 285. Oct. 31, 1765. 
t ProT. Rec. S. p. 379. 

13 



146 INTRODUCTION. 

lieved, in part, in their distresses, by the munificence of the 
Episcopal churches of Philadelphia, as appears from the fol- 
lowing : 

" July 26, 1763, the rector, (Richard Peters) representing 
to the Vestry, that the back inhabitants of this province are 
reduced to great distress and necessity, by the present inva- 
sion, proposed that some method be considered for collecting 
charity for their relief, from the congregation of Christ Church 
and St. Peter's, (Philadelphia,) and it was unanimously re- 
solved, that a preamble to a subscription paper for that pur- 
pose, be immediately drawn up, v/hich was accordingly done. 

"At their next meeting,the church wardens reported to the 
Vestry, that they had carried about a subscription paper, and 
made a collection from the congregations of Christ Church 
and St. Peter's, for the relief of the distressed frontier inhab- 
itants, amounting to £662, 3s. The rector and churchwar- 
dens were appointed a committee to correspond with certain 
persons in Cumberland county, in order to ascertain the ex- 
tent of the distress, that the above contributions might be 
judiciously distributed." 

Some idea of the greatness of this calamity in the western 
part of Pennsylvania, brought about by Indian hostilities, 
may be found from the following letter, addressed to the rec- 
tor and wardens of Christ Church and St. Peter's : 

Carlisle, August 24, 1763. 
Gentlemen : 

We lake the earliest opportunity of answering your letter on the 
12th inst., in which you inform us, that there is at your disposal a sum 
of money lobe distributed amongst the poor unhappy people on our 
frontiers, who have been obliged to fly their habitations, and take shel- 
ter in this town, Shippensburg, Littletown, Bedford, &c. We assure 
you, that we shall now, and all other times, be ready to give you as 
full and true information of every thing material relating to the suffer- ■ 
ers of our frontiers, as we shall be able, and we shall also be ready to 
give our assistance in the distribution of such sums of aaoney, as you 
shall think proper to send up, from lime to time, for the relief of those 
in distress. We have taken pains to get the number of the distressed, 
and upon strict inquiry, we find seven hundred and fifty families have 
abandoned their plantations, the greatest number of which have lost 
their crops, some their stock and furniture, and besides, we are inform- 
ed that there are about two hundred women and children coming down 
from Fort Pitt. We also find that the sums of money already sent up 
are almost expended, and that each family has not received twenty 
shillings upon an average ; although the greatest care has been taken 
to distribute it to those who appeared the greatest object of distress. — 
The unhappy sufferers are dispersed through every part of this coun- 



INTRODUCTION. 147 

ty, and many have passed through into York. Their exact num- 
ber we cannot possibly ascertain; we can only inform you, that 
iu this town and its neighborhood, there are upwards of two hundred 
families, many of which are in the greatest exigence; the small pox 
and flux raging much among them ; and from hence you may form a 
judgment of the numbers distressed through the other parts of this 
county, as wnll as at York. The other sums being almost expended, 
we conceived that immediate relief should be sent up, that those poor 
people may be enabled to employ a physician for the recovery of th« 
sick, as well as to purchase bread for their families; and this alone is 
what their present necessities call for. 

We are, &c., 

William Thombof, 
Itinerant Missionary for the counties of York and Cumberland. 

Fbancis West, 
Thomas Doknellok, 
Wardens of the Episcopal Church, Carlisle. 

In consequence of this information, a large supply of flour, 
rice, medicine, and other necessaries, were immediately ior- 
warded for the relief of the sufferers. And to enable those, 
who chose to return to their plantations, to defend themselves 
against future attacks of the Indians, the Vestry of Christ 
Church and St. Peter's were of opinion that the reiugees 
should be furnished with two chests of arms, and half a bar- 
rel of powder, four hundred pounds of lead, two hundred of 
swan shot, and one thousand flints. These were accordingly 
sent, with instructions to sell them to snch prudent and good 
people as are in want of them, and will use them for their 
defence, for the prices charged in the invoice. — Revd. B. 
Dorr's His. Ace. of Christ and St. Peter's Church, Phila. 
p. 139-142. 

Passing, it should be remarked, that many individuals 
made every effort to see the new settlements protected. 
Among them was David Scott, of Great Cove, when the first 
hostilities were committed by the Indians in that plac eand 
Conococheague, who gave his bond to pay and maintain 
twenty-seven men of a scouting party for three months ; dur- 
ing which time they repulsed the Indians who made attempts 
on the Great Cove, and the inhabitants got their crops reap- 
ed.— Fo^m o/^^^em. F, 297. 

In these distressed circumstances, the inhabitants of Cum- 
berland again applied, by petition, for relief: 

A petition from the inhabitants of the Great Cove, and 
Conococheague, in the county of Cumberland, was presented 



148 INTRODUCTION. 

to the house and read, setting forth, that the petitioners, by 
the late depredations and ravages of the Indians, committed 
on their neighbors, being in very imminent danger, were un- 
der the necessity of taking into pay a number of men, amount- 
ing to thirty, accustomed to hunting, endured to hardships, 
and well acquainted with the country, for the protection of 
themselves and lamilies. That the said men, being a body 
of intrepid, resolute fellows, under the command of one who 
was a captive with the Indians for several years — scouted at 
a considerable distance, and, by despatching runners, gave 
the inhabitants timely notice of any impending danger, by 
means whereof they have been enabled to continue on their 
plantations, and stand a barrier to the interior neighboring 
settlements. That had not this expedient been fallen upon, 
they must have deserted their habitations, and depended upon 
the charities of others; and that although they are very sen- 
sible of, and gratefully acknowledge, the care of the legisla- 
ture, in granting a number of men for the protection of the 
frontiers, yet they find themselves under the necessity of em- 
ploying this body of men, inasmuch as the soldiers grant- 
ed for their department are not acquainted^ with the 
country, or the Indian manner of fighting. That the peti- 
tioners are poor, and incapable of supporting this body of 
men, having already advanced greater sums than they could 
afford ; and unless they are assisted by the government, shall 
be obliged to abandon their plantations to the savages, to the 
ruin of themselves, and great injury of their neighbors ; for 
which reasons they humbly pray the house would take the 
premises into consideration, and enable them to continue the 
aforesaid body of men, in such manner, and subject to such 
directions, as they shall judge most proper and advantageous. 
^Votes of Assembly, V, 264. Sept. 17, 1763. 

In 1764, the Indians once more surprised the inhabitants 
of Cumberland (FrankHn) county. The following extracts, 
the first from John McCullough's narrative, the second from 
Richard Bard's, give the history of a murder committed by 
the Indians within the limits of Franklin county : 

" Some time in the summer, whilst we were living at Kia- 
ho-ling, a great number of Indians collected at the forks of 
Moos-hing-oong ; perhaps there were about three hundred or 
upwards ; their intention was to come to the settlement and 
make a general massacre of the whole people, without any 



INTRODtrCTION. 149 

regard to age or sex; they were out about ten days, when 
most of them returned ; having held a council, they concluded 
that it was not safe for them to leave their towns, destitute of 
defence. However several small parties went to different parts 
of the settlements : it happened that three of them, whom I 
I was well acquainted with, came to the neighborhood of 
where I was taken from — they were young fellows, perhaps 
none of them more than twenty years of age; they came to a 
school house, where they murdered and scalped the master 
and all the scholars, except one, who survived after he was 
scalped ; a boy about ten years old, a full cousin of mine. I 
saw the Indians when they returned home with the scalps ; 
some of the old Indians vv'ere very much displeased at them 
for killing so many children; especially JYeep-paugh-whesey 
or night walker, an old chief, or half king; he alluded it 
to cowardice, which was the greatest affront he could offer 
them." — Lou-don's JYarratives, /, 334, 

In August, 1764, (according to the best accounts of the 
time) my (Bard's) father and his family, from fear of the In- 
dians, having moved to my grandfather's, Thomas Poe's, 
about three miles from his own place, he took a black girl 
with him, to his own place, to make some hay ; and being 
there at his work, a dog which he had with him, began to 
bark and run towards, and from a thicket of bushes. Ob- 
serving these circumstances, he became alarmed, and taking 
up his gun, told the girl to run to the house, for he believed 
there were Indians near. So they made towards the house, 
and had not been there more than one hour, when from the 
left of the house they saw a party, commanded by Captain 
Potter, late Gen. Potter, in pursuit of a party of Indians who 
had that morning (July 26, 1764,) murdered a schoolmaster 
of the name of Brown, with ten small children, and scalped 
and left for dead, one by the nameof Archibald McCullough, 
who recovered, and was living not long since. It was re- 
markable, that with but few exceptions, the scholars were 
much averse to going to school that morning. And the ac- 
count given by McCullough is, that when the master and 
scholars met at the school, two of the scholars informed him 
that on their way they had seen Indians ; but the information 
was not attended to by the master, who ordered them to their 
books; soon afterwards two old Indians and a boy rushed up 
to the door. The master seeing them, prayed them only to 

13* 



150 INTRODUCTION. 

take his life and spare the children ; but unfeelingly, the two 
old Indians stood at the door, whilst the boy entered the 
house, and with a piece of wood, made in the form of an In- 
dian maul, killed the master and scholars ; after which the 
whole of them were scalped. — Incidents of Border Life, 
p. 122, 

In connection with the relation of the murder of Mr. Brown 
and his pupils, here is inserted a communication, to the Com- 
piler, from Andrew B. Rankin, Esq., which, it is believed, 
will be read with interest : 

Grekn Castle, Jan'y 23, 1845. 

" In compliance with your request, I cheerfully furnish you the 
following : 

Exhumation of the bones of the murdered school, comprising ten scholars and 

teacher. 

"On the 4th of August 1843, the following persons, viz : Dr. William I 
Grubb, Dr. James R. Davidson, Dr. Chas. Michaels, Messrs. James '\ 
Mitchell, George Sites, James Johnson, Jacob Mowrer, John Osbroch, \ 
George Shert, Christian Koser, James Burk, John Kowe, jr., William j 
Osbroch, Col. David Dietrich, Adam Shireg, Thomas Atherton, and 
two youths, Mr. Irwin and Isaac Heichert, repaired to the farm of 
Christian Koser, about three miles north of Green Castle, in the town- 
ship of Antrim, where tradition said, the bodies of the murdered victims 
were buried, at the foot, and on the south side of a large hill, near a 
spring. Mr. Koser pointed out to them, a small plat of ground, un- 
marked by any thing, save the grass and briars that distinguished it 
from the land around it — The spot is in an open field, and the land 
around it, cultivated. Some of the party soon commenced removing 
the earth ; and after digging to the depth of four feet and a half, 
found some rotten wood, and several rusty nails of ancient construc- 
tion. After digging a little deeper, part of a small skeleton was found ; 
the bones were much decayed — and when the scull was handled, it 
crumbled into dust. The teeth, however, seemed sound. Near by the 
side of the skeleton, there was discovered another, which from its size, 
was evidently that of a man, full grown — it was in a much better state 
of preservation, and from the relics found in close contact, which were 
a large metal button, some small ones, part of an iron box, which 
seemed to have been a tobacco box — it was manifest that it was the 
skeleton of the teacher. Several other smaller skeletons were discov- 
ered. The skeletons were found lying with feet and head in opposite 
directions. 

" I remember, when a youth, forty-five years ago, to hear it stated, that 
the teacher and scholars were all buried in the same grave, being put 
into a large, rudely constructed box, with their clothing on, as they were 
found after being murdered. The relics found prove the truth of the 
tradition. The foul murder was perpetrated by the Indians, in August 
1764, (July 26, i. d. r.) just 79 years before the exhumation took place. 
The name of the teacher was Brown, and three of the scholars were 
said to be named Taylor, Hart and Hale. 



INTRODUCTION. 151 

" The relics above mentioned are now in the possession of those who 
were present, when they were found.* Some of the citizens of Green 
Castle and vicinity, to render sacred, and perpetuate this spot, where lie 
the bones of the innocent victims of Indian ferocity, design in the 
course of the ensuing summer, to raise a mound upon it, and inscribe 
its history upon a stone, to be placed at the side. 

" Some of the remains of the school house still exist and mark the 
place of its location. It was truly a solitary one, and would be con- 
sidered so at this day. It was situated on the brow of a hill. In the 
front of it, there is a ravine, deep and dismal — on the north and west, 
the surrounding hills are covered with a thick growth of underwood 
and pine. At the foot of the hill issues a clear spring, where rest in 
silence the bones and the dust of the murdered school." 

Shortly after the above murder had been committed, the 
Indians were again seen at McDowell's, (Franklin county) 
pursuing two men ; and soon afterwards, some savages mur- 
dered most barbarously, the daughter of James Dysart, 12 
or 13 miles above Carlisle. Along the frontiers, except in 
the neighborhood of Bedford, all seemed quiet for sometime; 
hence, those in the interior, not being on their guard, were 
unexpectedly surprised. 

The following extracts from letters, dated at Carlisle, are 
here introduced : 

Adocst 14, 1764. 

We heard by a young man from Conegocheague, that Indians are 
seen in that settlement almost every day ; and that on Friday last, two 
men were pursued by four of them, near Justice McDowell's, and with 
great difficulty escaped. 

August 17 — A young woman daughter of James Dysart, going home 
from sermon at Big Spring, last Sunday, about ten or twelve miles 
from here, was met with, murdered and scalped, and left naked by the 
enemy. This has alarmed the settlement, who were chiefly gone from 
home to their places, and will, we are afraid, make many again fly, es- 
pecially as there are so many accounts of Indians being: seen in small 
parties almost every day, in some part or other of the county. 

From another letter of the same date : — ''All appears quiet at pre- 
sent along the frontier, except about Bedford, where there are, accord- 
ing to intelligence from thence, some of the savages lying in wait for 
opportunity of doing mischief. They attempted very lately, to take a 
man that was fishing, but he got ofl^". The people are returning over 
the hills to their places, which we are afraid, is yet too soon." — Penna. 
Gazette, August 30, 1764. 

The following extract of a letter from Gen. Henry Bouquet, to Gov. 

* The Compiler saw the relics, Jan'y 17, 1845, in the possession of 
Mr. G. W. Zeigler, at Green Castle. 



152 INTRODUCTION. 

ernor Penn, dated at Fort Loudon, 22d August, 1764 — in a postscript 
to which of August 25, he says, " A partj' of thirty or forty Indians 
have killed near Bedford, one Isaac Stimble, an industrious inhabitant 
of Ligonier — taken some horses loaded with merchants' goods, and 
shot some cattle, after Colonel Ried's detachment had passed that post. 
Some more have been killed twelve miles from Winchester. 

In the year 1777, says Burd and Mower, Esqs., a family 
named Tull resided about six miles west of Bedford, on a hill 
to which the name of the family was given ; theie were ten 
children — nine daughters and a son ; but at the time referred 
to, the son was absent, leaving at home his aged parents and 
nine sisters. At that time the Indians were particularly trou- 
blesome, and the inhabitants had to abandon their improve- 
ments and take refuge to the fort ; but Tull's family disre- 
garded the danger and remained on their improvements. One 
vVilhams, who had made a settlement about three miles west 
of Tull's, and near where the town of Shellsburg now stands, 
had returned to his farm to sow some flaxseed : he had a son 
with him, and remained out about a week. The road to his 
improvement passed Tull's house. On their return, as they 
approached Tull's, they saw a smoke ; and coming nearer, 
discovered that it arose from the burning ruins of Tull's house. 
Upon a nearer approach, the son saw an object in the garden, 
which by a slight movement had attracted his attention, and 
looking more closely, they found it was the old man just ex- 
piring. At the same moment, the son discovered on the 
ground near him an Indian paint bag. They at. once under- 
stood the whole matter, and knowing that the Indians were 
still near, fled at once to the fort. Next day a force went 
out from the fort to examine, and after some search found the 
mother with an infant in her arms, both scalped. A short dis- 
tance, in the same direction, they found the eldest daughter 
also scalped. A short distance from her, the next daughter 
in the same situation, and scattered about at intervals the rest 
of the children but one, who, from some circumstances, they 
supposed had been burned. They all appeared to have been 
overtaken in flight, and murdered and scalped where they 
were found. It seems the family was surprised in the morn- 
ing, when all were in the house, and thus became an easy 
prey to the savages. 

About December, 1777, a number of families came into the 
fort from the neighborhood of Johnstown. Amongst them 



INTRODUCTION. 153 

were Samuel Adams, one Thornton and Bridges. After the 
alarm had somewhat subsided, they agreed to return to their 
property. A party started with pack horses, reached the 
place, and not seeing any Indians, collected their property 
and commenced their return. After proceeding some distance, 
a dog belonging to one of the party, showed signs of uneasi- 
ness, and ran back. Bridges and Thornton desired the others 
to wait whilst they would go back for him. They went 
back, and had proceeded but two or three hundred yards, 
when a body of Indians, who had been lying in wait on each 
side of the way, but who had been afraid to fire on account 
of the number of the whites, suddenly rose up and took them 
prisoners. The others, not knowing what detained their 
companions, went back after them; when they arrived near 
the spot, the Indians fired on them, but without doing any 
injury. The whites instantly turned and fled, excepting Sa- 
muel Adams, who took a tree and began to fight in the In- 
dian style. In a few minutes, however, he was killed, but 
not without doing the same fearful service for his adversary. 
He and one of the Indians shot at, and killed each other, at 
the same moment. When the news reached the fort, a party 
volunteered to visit the ground. When they reached it, al- 
though the snow had fallen ankle deep, they readily found 
the bodies of Adams and the Indian, the face of the latter 
having been covered by his companions with Adams' hunting 
shirt. 

A singular circumstance also occurred about that time in 
the neighborhood of the Allegheny mountain. A man named 
Wells, had made a very considerable improvement, and was 
esteemed rather wealthy for that region. He, like others, 
had been forced with his family from his house, and had gone 
for protection to the fort. In the fall of the year he conclud- 
ed to return to his place and dig his crop ol potatoes. For 
that purpose he took with him six or seven men, an Irish ser- 
vant girl to cook, and an old plough horse. After they had 
finished their job, they made preparations to return to the 
fort the next day. During the night. Wells dreamed that 
on his way to his family he had been attacked and 
gored by a bull ; and so strong an impression did the dream 
make, that he mentioned it to his companions, and told them 
that he was sure some danger awaited them. He slept again 
and dreamed that he was about to shoot a deer, and 



154 INTRODUCTION. 

when cocking his gun, the main-spring broke. In his 
dream he thought he heard distinctly the crack of the 
spring when it broke. He again awoke and his fears were 
confirmed ; and he immediately urged his friends to rise and 
get ready to start. Directly after he arose he went to his 
gun to examine it, and in cocking it the mainspring snapped 
off. This circumstance alarmed them, and they soon had 
breakfast and were ready to leave. To prevent delay, the 
girl was put on the horse and started off, and as soon as it 
was light enough, the rest followed. Before they had gone 
far, a young dog belonging to Wells, manifested much alarm, 
and ran back to the house. Wells called him, but after go- 
ing a hort distance, he invariably ran back. 

Not wishing to leave him, as he was valuable, he went 
after him, but had gone only a short distance towards the 
house, when five Indians rose from behind a large tree that 
had fallen, and approached him with extended hands. The 
men who were with him, fled instantly; and he would have 
followed, but the Indians were so close that he thought it 
useless. As they approached hira, however, he fancied the 
looks of a very powerful Indian, who was nearest him, boded 
no good; and being a swift runner, and thinking it "neck 
or nothing," at any rate determined to attempt an escape. 
As the Indian approached, he threw at him his useless rifle, 
and dashed off towards the woods, in the direction his com- 
panions had gone. Instead of firing, the Indians commenced 
a pursuit, for the purpose of making him a prisoner, but he 
outran them. After running some distance, and when they 
thought he would escape, they all stopped and fired at once, 
and every bullet struck hira, but without doing him much ia- 
jury or retarding his flight. Soon after this he saw where 
his companions concealed themselves ; and as he passed, he 
begged them to fire on the Indians and save him ; but they 
were afraid, and kept quiet. He continued his flight, and af- 
ter a short time overtook the girl with the horse. She quickly 
understood his danger and dismounted instantly, urging him 
to take her place, while she w^ould save herself by conceal- 
ment. He mounted, but without a whip, and for want of 
one could not get the old horse out of a trot. This delay 
brought the Indians upon him again directly, and as soon as 
they were near enough, they fired ; and this time with more 
effect, as one of the balls struck him in the hip and lodged in 



INTRODUCTION. 155 

his groin. But this saved his life ; it frightened the horse 
into a gallop, and he escaped, although he suffered severely 
for several months afterwards. 

The Indians were afterwards pursued, and surprised at 
their morning meal ; and when fired on, four of them were 
killed, but the other, though wounded, made his escape. 
Bridges, who was taken prisoner near Johnstown, when Ad- 
ams was murdered, saw him come to his people, and describes 
him as having been shot through the chest, with leaves stuffed 
in the bullet holes to stop the bleeding. 

The Indians were most troublesome during their predatory 
incursions, which were frequent after the commencement of 
the revolution. They cut off a party of whites under com- 
mand of Captain Dorsey, at "The Harbor," a deep cove 
formed by Ray's hill, and a spur from it. 

One John Lane was out at one time, and a spy and scout 
under the command of Captain Philips. He left the scout 
once for two days, on a visit home, and when he returned to 
the fort, the scout had been out some time. Fears were en- 
tertained for their safety. A party went in search ; and with- 
in a mile or two of the fort, found Captain Philips and the 
whole of his men, fifteen in number, killed and scalped. — 
When found they were all tied to saplings ; and, to use the 
language of the narrator, who was an eye witness, "their bo- 
dies were completely riddled with arrows." 

In 1780, the inhabitants were again surprised and a num- 
ber of them killed, as stated in the subjoined letter. 

Cumberland countt, August 7, 1780. 
To his Excellency Joseph Reid, Esq. 

Sir : — I received the orders of council for the volunteers to be put 
in motion, in order to join the main army and for those classes of the 
militia VQ he in readiness—And was unfortunately long coming to my 
hand. I nave sent agreeable to said orders to put the volunteers into 
motion that were raised on the north side of the mountain ; but unfor- 
tunately I have sent one company to the frontiers of Northumberland 
county, and the other to the frontiers ol Bedford, which was in a very 
distressed situation, about three weeks ago, the Indians came on a 
scout, a Captain and twelve men in a place called Woodrock Valley, 
and not one of the party escaped ; they lay, I believe ten days without 
being buried ; I went with a party from this county and covered them 
the best way we could, which was a very disagreeable task. 

I am apt to think it will be a very distressing and disagreeable cir- 
cumstance to the frontiers to have the volunteers taken from them. — 
My reason for sending them then as soon as they were ready, was to 



156 INTRODUCTION. 

support and assist the inhabitants in saving their harvest. I am afraid 
the militia of this county will not turn out so well as I could wish ; but 
your excellency may depend upon it that every exertion in my power 
shall be used on the occasion, as I am fully convinced of the necessity 
of our utmost efforts this year in order to save the country. This 
county is now very scarce of ammunition, and I have not been able to 
find any trusty hand and wagon to send for, but expect one before long, 
when, 1 flatter myself, that council will supply us with a sufficient 
quantity of powder, lead and flints. 

I doubt if the number required of the militia, turn out, we will not 
be able to arm them in this county, as we have already furnished the 
volunteers out of what state arms were here, but we have got a few 
muskets, but they all want bayonets. I am happy to inform you we 
have this year had a very plentiful harvest in this county, and appear- 
ances ol fine corn and plenty of fruit, and also a good disposition in a 
number of the people to receive and give credit to the state money (if 
they could get it) but very little of it has come to this part of the coun- 
ty yet. But if ready money of any kind could be had there could be 
plenty of supplies purchased. There may difficulty arise about pro- 
curing wagons, as I believe there is no wagon-master that acts fc 'his 
county. 

I have the honor to be 

your Excellency's most obedient 

and humble servant, 

Abm. Smith. 



CHAPTER XI. 

INDIANS MASSACRED AT CARLISLE — (1760). 

Preliminary remarks— Doctor John, a Delaware Indian and family mur- 
dered, near Carlisle — Assembly makes inquiries into the case — West's 
letter touching the same — Tittel's and Davis's depositions — Lough- 
ry's deposition— Allusion to the murder in a conference held with the 
Indians in 1762. 

The principal murders committed by the Indians upon the 
whites, within the limits of Cumberland and Lancaster coun- 
ties, at their early organization (but now comprising also 
what is embraced by the several counties, of w^hich a history 
is attempted) have been noticed from 1727 to the close of the 
Revolutionary war. As the whites, in their turn, did also 
commit, as they were unhesitatingly pronounced, "murders 
upon the Indians," within the geographical bounds of Cum- 
berland and Lancaster, at the time alluded to, it is deemed as 
not ir.iappropriate to notice these also, in this connection. As 
compiler, the writer does not wish to advance any thing in 
extenuation of the misdeeds of the whites. He would, how- 
ever, passing, remark : that in war — in the midst of the cal- 
amities of a protracted war — it seems the ordinary sympathies 
of our nature, often forsook the inured warrior. There may 
be some exceptions (?). In the savage, war whets the de- 
structive propensities, and his thirst for " blood and carnage" 
increases in ardency, as the number of his victims swells. To- 
tal extirpation only constitute the bounds of his sphere of 
slaughter ; hence so many indiscriminate murders both of the 
innocent and offensive. Persons, civilized, savage, or demi- 
savage, who once shuddered at the hearing, or seeing the 
murder of a single individual, can, when inured to the mise- 
ries of war, listen to the report of countless numbers slain, 
as an amusing tale ; and be prepared to resent to the utmost, 
at his life's hazard, every real or imaginary wrong — avenge 
himself in the destruction of those whom he believes to be 
aggressor, or mere abettors. Striking exemplifications are 
recorded in the annals of every country : the cruelties " re- 

14 



158 INTRODUCTION. 

ciprocally committed" among the whites and Indians, are in 
point. 

The first case of murder, by the whites, of friendly Indi- 
ans, is that of Doctor John, a Delaware Indian, who came 
with his family, consisting of a woman and two children, to 
Cumberland county, in the winter of 1760, and lived in a 
hunting cabin on Conodoguinet creek, not far from Carlisle. 
He and his family were murdered in the early part of Febru- 
ary. The news of this barbarous deed was immediately com- 
municated to Governor Hamilton, by Francis West, Esq., of 
Carlisle. The governor left nothing undone to bring to pun- 
ishment those who had perpetrated this inhuman murder. 

From the Provincial Records, it appears " the governor 
informed the council, that on the 21st of February, 1760, he 
had received a letter from Justice West, of Carlisle, acquaint- 
ing him of a cruel murder having been committed on an Indi- 
an called John, and a Httle boy of his, and that there was 
reason to think his wife was also murdered, and Capt. Cal- 
lender coming to town from Carlisle, his Honor had exam- 
ined him, and by him was told that an inquest had been held 
on the bodies of the said Doctor John, and a male child, two 
Delaware Indians in friendship with us, and that it was the 
opinion and verdict, that they were wilfully murdered ; and it 
was further said by Captain Callender that there was reason 
to believe. Doctor John's wife and her child were also mur- 
dered, whereupon the governor sent a verbal message to the 
House informing them of this matter, and recommending to 
them, a reward for the detection of the murderers, &c. 

The Assembly sent for Callender, and after interrogating 
him on the subject, they then offered a reward of a hundred 
pounds for the apprehension of each person concerned in the 
murder. The excitement occasioned was immense ; for it was 
feared that the Indians might seek to avenge the murder on 
the settlers. That reparation on the part of the chiefs would 
be demanded. The inhabitants of Carlisle and vicinity made 
every exertion to seek out the offenders, as will appear from 
the following : 

Cahlisle, Feb. 28, 1760. 
Sir— 
An inhuman and barbarous murder was performed on Doctor John 
and his family. This Indian, who has been considered a friend to the 
vihitei has been treacherously murdered, by some persons unknown. 



INTRODUCTION. 159 

He belongs to the Delawares ; and I grieve to say that their chiefs will 
demand reparation. 

So many cruelties have been practiced upon the whites by the Indi- 
ans, that the innocent (Indians) are not secure from their revenge. 

I regret that it should have happened in our village. Be assured, 
we shall do all in our power to bring the offenders to justice. 

Caulislk, March 7, 1760. 
To Gov. Hamilton : 
Sir— 
I was honored with your letter of February 2lst, and in obedience 
thereto, have caused diligent search, and inquiry to be made for the 
murderers, by the constables, along and between Connogogwinet, and 
the Kittatinny mountain to Susquehannah ; but the least discovery'has 
not been made. 

Doctor John, the Indian who was lately murdered, was of the Dela- 
ware tribe (as I am informed) ; but what Nation his squaw and the boy 
were of, I can't clearly learn : he followed hunting whilst in this neigh- 
borhood, and behaved insolently, as you will see by the enclosed depo- 
sitions. 

You may be a.ssured I will use my best endeavors to find out the per- 
sons who perpetrated that barbarous act ; I will for the future, afford 
protection to every friendly and peaceable Indian that shall sojourn in 
this county. 

I am with great respect, 

your Honor's most obedient 
and humble servant, ' 

FaAs. Wbst. 

Cumberland county, ss. 

The deposition of Peter Title of Carlisle, aged about thirty-five years, 
taken before me, &c. Being sworn, &c., deposeth and saith that about 
the I5th day of January last, a certain Indian, called Doctor John, was 
in his house at Carlisle: the said Doctor John spoke contemptuously of 
the soldiers, by saying they were good for nothing, and that he and two 
or three more of them would drive the whole of them; and this depo- 
nent further saith, that said Doctor John said that they killed Captain 
Jacobs, but that he had another Capt. Jacobs, a young big man, bigger 
and stronger than him that was killed, and further this deponent saiih 
not. 

Peter Tittsl. 

Sworn and subscribed, the 
4th day of March, 1760, 

before Fras. West. 

a 

Richard Davis, aged fifteen years, said the Indian called Doctor John, 
was in the house of Peter Tittle, about the 15th day of January, when 
he (the deponent) told a certain Thomas Evans, that he killed sixty 
white people and captured six, and said deponent said he heard Doctor 
John say, if the war would break out again he would do the same, and 
asked the said Evans if he would taste it— (meaning death) — and he 
heard John say in an insulting and angry tone, that the white people 



160 INTRODUCTION. 

killed his Captain Jacobs, but that he had one twice as big, and that 
they were fools, for when he caught a while prisoner he would lie 
down on the ground till he would kill and scalp him. 
Sworn and subscribed, &c., 
March 4, 1760. 

P. S. Lest the above mentioned Thomas Evans should be suspected 
of the murder of the Indians, on acconnt of their insolent talk and be- 
havior to him, I undertake to say, he is a drunken, stupid fellow, inca- 
pable of such enterprise. 

Frans. West. 

Cumberland county, ss. 

The deposition of John Loughry, of York county, Pa„ aged twenty- 
three years ; by trade a weaver. 

That on or about the beginning of February last, a certain John Ma- 
son, son of John Mason of Cumberland county, applied to have this 
deponent to be assistant with him in perpetrating the murder of a party 
of Indians, to the number of four or thereabouts, residing in cabins on 
Connodogwinham creek ; this said deponent desired the said Mason not 
to be concerned in such an affair, for it would bring him to trouble. 
That some time after that, this deponent being at Mrs. Allison's in Con- 
nogojigg, in the county and province aforesaid, a certain James Foster 
of Paxton, in Lancaster county, then informed him, this deponent, that 
James Foster, together with William George, and some of the boys of 
Arthur Foster, which said boys, this deponent imagined to be sons of 
the said Arthur Foster, all of the county of Cumberland, perpetrated 
the murder of said Indians, by forcibly entering into the cabins of said 
Indians in the night, when asleep, with axes, &c., and killed and scalp- 
ed said Indians ; and that some time near the beginning of March last, 
being at Pittsburgh, (at which time the governor's proclamation for . 
discovering said. murderers was there publicly known) that the afore- 
said James told him, this deponent, that he, the said Foster, was afraid 
the murder would be found out upon him and his accomplices. This 
deponent further saith not. 

Sworn before us, two of his Majesty's Justices of the Peace, for the 
county aforesaid, at Carlisle, May 6, 1760. 

John Loughbt. 

Fras. West, 

Herm. Alrieks. 

Carlisle, May the 7th, 1760. 
To Gov. Hamilton : 

Sir — Herewith we send you inclosed the copy of John Loughry's depo- 
sition, against James Foster, John Mason, (who are now at Pittsburgh 
in the Battoe service) William George, and the boys or sons of Arthur 
Foster, for the murder of four Indians, near this town, we issued our 
warrant to the constables, to apprehend such as there are in this coun- 
ty; and we intend by the first opportunity to the commanding officers 
at Pittsburg, to forward a copy of the deposition, with a request to ap- 
prehend and confine, both Mason and Foster, till your orders for trans- 
mitting them here, arrive there. 
As Loughry had no bail for his appearance, at Court to prosecute, 



rNTRODUCTION. 161 

and for his personal safety, we have confined him in prison : and fur- 
ther, as his evidence is only hearsay, we want information whether 
William George and the sons of Arthur Foster, are bailable or not. 
We therefore request your answer and advice on this head. 
We are, with the greatest respect, 

Your Honor's most obedient and humble servants, 

Fhas. West, 
Hermaku9 Albices. 

A few years after this murder had been committed, the 
subject was formally considered in a Conference held with 
Indians, relatives of the deceased, at Philadelphia, May 6th, 

The persons present were Gov. Hamilton, Richard Peters, 
Joseph Fox, and the following Indians, viz : Se-con-guep-po' 
Naw-tow-his-son, and Wal-la-guon-ta-hic-con. 

In relation to the death of Doctor John, Gov. Hamilton 
said to the Indians : 

" I have taken notice of every thing you said to me— 
Brethren, the news you heard about the death of your rela- 
tive is but two true. Your relative came with his family, 
consisting of a woman and two children, in the winter, two 
years ago, into Cumberland county, and lived in a hunting 
cabm on the river Conedaguainet, near the town of Carlisle, 
and he and one of his children, a little boy, were found mur- 
dered, not far from town, and the woman with the other 
child was missing, &c."— Pro. Rec. S. p. 235. 



14* 



CHAPTER XII. 

INDIANS MASSACRED IN LANCASTER COUNTY — (1763). 

Frontier settlers harassed and separated—Paxton Boys concert to make 
an onslaught upon the Indians at Conestogo ; meet for that purpose- 
Rev. John Elder expostulates with them in vain—He sends an express 
with a written message — Rev. Elder, &c.— Deposition of Newcomer, 
Hambright, Cunningham, Mary Le Roy--The Paxton Boys attacked 
the Indian village and massacred a number of Indians and set fire to 
their huts— Shippen's letter— Beaty and Miller's letter — Inquisition 
held— Penn's proclamation and letter—Indians massacred in Lancas- 
ter jail— Sheriff Hay's letter-Shippen's letter— William Henry's 
letter. 

Doctor John's murder was a kind of prelude ; for there 
were still causes, as late as 1763, to exasperate the whites. 

The inhabitants of the frontiers oil the west and east of 
the Susquehanna river, were still greatly alarmed in the sum- 
mer and autumn of 1763. " A number of Indians of vari- 
ous tribes, actuated by the love of shedding blood, or the de- 
sire for ruin, had committed great depredations and cruelties 
on the unoffending whiles. The Indians committed acts of 
brutal violence under cover of the night." 

The inhabitants of Donegal and Paxton townships, in 
Lancaster county, reflecting on the past, and the present with 
them; perhaps, in reviewing facts, thus soliloquized : "Have 
not the bloody barbarians, exercised on our fathers, mothers, 
brothers, sisters, wives, children, inoffensive as they were, 
and kindred near and remote, the most unnatural and leisure- 
ly tortures? Butchered some in their beds, in the dead hour* 
of the night — at their meals, or in some unguarded hour?" 
Recalling to their minds sights of horror! scenes of slaugh- 
ter ; seeing scalps clotted with gore ! mangled limbs ! men, 
women, children, ripped up ! the hearts and bowels still pal- 
pitating with life, and smoking on the ground. Seeing sav- 
ages swill their blood, and imbibing a more courageous fury 
with the human draught. They then may have reason thus 



INTRODUCTION. 163 

— These are not human beings ! They are not beasts of 
prey ! They are something worse ; they must be " infernal 
furies in human shape /" Are we, asked they, tamely to 
look on, and suffer these infuriated demons to exercise such 
hellish barbarities upon our wives, children, kindred ! our 
brethren and fellow inhabitants ! Shall these barbarians — 
those, whose veins return to barbarous hearts, the blood of 
savages — even those whom we have some reason to suspect 
as accessories — shall they escape ? The law — the hatchet — 
the rifle — fire and faggot — all must bear on them ! These 
were, as it might be supposed, the feelings that incited the 
" Paxtoji boys,'' to acts of cruelty. And, it might be asked, 
Who could, with all the influences of such combined circum- 
stances, let escape one Indian, suspected of perfidy and 
treachery, however specious his conduct, in the light of day? 
That the Paxtonians had reason to believe some of the pro- 
fessedly friendly Indians, to be greatly of perfidy or treache- 
ry — even among those in the Manor of Conestogo, would 
seem evident from a number of authentic statements, and evi- 
dence from other credible sources. So bent upon destroying 
the Indians at Conestogo, were the Paxtonians, that all ex- 
postulation on the part of their respected pastor, the Revd. 
Elder, was in vain. On hearing that a number of persons 
were assembled for the purpose of proceeding to Conestogo, 
to cut off the Indians, he did all in his power to dissuade 
them from so rash an act. He sent an express wnth a writ- 
ten message, expostulating with them, and pointing out to 
them the consequences — that they would be liable even to 
capital punishment. The following is adduced as corrobora- 
tive of these facls: 

Uev. John Elder to Hon. Jno. Penn, Esq., Gov. — Touching Massacre of 
Conestogo Indians. 

Paxtojt, December 16, 1763. 
Sir- 
On receiving intelligence the 13th inst., that a number of persons 
were assembling, on purpose to go and cut off the Conestogo Indians, 
in concert with Mr. Forster, the neighboring Magistrate, I hurried off 
with a written message to that party, "Entreating them to desist from 
such an undertaKing, representing to them the unlawfulness and barba- 
rity of such an action, that it is cruel and unchristian in its nature, and 
would be fatal in its consequences to themselves and families ; thai, 
private persons have no right to take the lives of any under the protec- 
tion of the Legislature; that, they must, if they proceeded in that affair, 



164 INTRODUCTION. 

lay their accounts to meet with a severe prosecution, and become lia- 
ble even to capital punishment ; that they need not expect that the 
country would endeavor to conceal or screen them from punishment, 
but that they would be detected, and given up to the resentment of the 
government." 

These things I urged in the warmest terms, in order to prevail with 
them to drop the enterprise, but to no purpose ; they pushed on, and 
have destroyed some of these Indians ; though how many I have not 
yet been certainly informed: I nevertheless thought it my duty to give 
your Honor this early notice ; that, an action of this nature may not be 
imputed to these frontier settle. nents. For I know not one person here 
of judgmont or prudence, that has been any wise concerned in it : but 
it has been done by some hot-headed, ill-ndvised persons ; and especially 
by such, I imagine, as suffered much in their relations, by the ravages com- 
mitted in the late Indian war. 

I am sir, 

Your most obedient and 
Very humble servant, 

John Elder. 
To the Hon. John Penn, Esq. 

Devoted as their endeared pastor was to their welfare, the 
Paxtonians were, as they believed, so cruelly treated by the 
Indians ; and having asked government to renaove the In- 
dians from Conestogo, that, they lent a deaf ear to all that 
he could say, and, as will appear from the sequel, made both 
innocent and guilty feel their vengeance. 

The palHating letter was written by the Rev. Mr. Elder, 
to Governor Penn, in which the character of Stewart is re- 
presented as hnmane, liberal and religious. 

The Rev. Mr. Elder died at the advanced age of 86 years, 
in 1792, on his farm adjoining Harrisburg, beloved in life and 
in death lamented. 

The Rev. Mr. Elder frequently visited the Indians at Con- 
estogo, Pequehan and the Big Island, and was much respect- 
ed by them. He had frequently represented to the christian 
Indians, the wrong they were doing to the whites, by admit- 
ting stranger Indians among them ; conduct which made 
them suspected of treachery. 

Extract from a letter of the Rev. Mr. Elder, to Gov. 
Penn, January 27, 1764 : " The storm which had been so 
long gathering, has at length exploded. Had Government 
removed the Indians from Conestogue, which had frequently 
been urged, without success, this painful catastrophe might 
have been avoided. What could I do with men heated to 
madness ? All that I could do, was done ; I expostulated ; 



INTRODUCTION. 165 

but life and reason were set at defiance. And yet the men 
in private life, are virtuous and respectable ; not cruel, but 
mild and merciful. 

The time will arrive when each palliating circumstance 
will be calmly weighed. This deed magnified into the 
blackest of crimes, shall be considered as one of those youth- 
ful ebullitions of wrath caused by momentary excitement, to 
which human infirmity is subjected." 

Abraham Newcomer, a Mennonite ; by trade a gunsmith ; upon his 
affirmation, declared that several times within these few years, Bill 
Soc and Indian John, two of the Coneslogo Indians, threatened to scalp 
him for refusing to mend their tomahawks, and swore they would as 
soon scalp him as soon as they would a dog. A few days before Bill 
Soc was killed, he brought a tomahawk to be steeled. Bill said, "if 
you will not, I'll have it mended to your sorrow," from which expres- 
sion I apprehended danger. 

Mrs. Thomson, of the borough of Lancaster, personally appeared 
the Chief Burgess, and upon her solemn oath, on the Holy Evangelists, 
saip that in the summer of 1761, Bill Soc came to her apartment, and 
threatened her life, saying, "I kill you, all Lancaster can't catch me," 
which filled me with terror. And this lady further said, Bill Soc added, 
" Lancaster is mine, and I will have it yet." 

Colonel John Harabright, gentleman, an eminent brewer of the bor- 
ough of Lancaster, personally appeared before Robert Thompson, Esq. 
a justice of the county of Lancaster, and made oath on the Holy Evan- 
gelists, that in August, 1757, he, an officer, was sent for provision from 
fort Augusta to Fort Hunter, that on his way he rested at McKee's old 
place; a sentinel was stationed behind a tree to prevent surprise. The 
sentry gave notice, Indians were near; the deponent crawled up the 
bank and discovered two Indians; one was Bill Soc lately killed at 
Lancaster. He called Soc to come to him ; but the Indians ran off. 
When the deponent came to Fort Hunter, he learned that an old man 
had been killed before. Bill Soc and his companion were believed to 
be the perpetrators of the murder. He, the deponent, had frequently 
seen Bill Soc and some of the Conestogo Indians at fort Augusta, trad- 
ing with the Indians : but after the murder of the old man. Bill Soc did 
not appear at that garrison. 

John Hambbight. 

Sworn and subscribed, the 28th of February, 1764. 

Alexander Stephen, of the county of Lancaster, personally appeared 
before Thomas Foster, Esq., one of the magistrates, and being duly 
qualified according to law, doth say, that Carmayak Sally, an Indian 
woman, told him that the Conestogo Indians had killed Jegrea, an In- 
dian, because he would not join the Conestogo Indians in destroying 
the English. James Cotter told the deponent that he was one of the 
three that killed William Hamilton, on Sherman's creek, and also an- 
other man, with seven of his family. James Cotter demanded of the 



166 INTRODUCTION. 

deponent a canoe which the murderers had left, as Cotter told him 
■when the murder was committed. 

Alexander Stephkb. 
Thomas Foster, Justice. 

Charles Cunningham, of the count}^ of Lancaster, personally appear- 
ed before me, Thos. Foster, Esq. one of the magistrates for said county, 
and being qualified according to law, doth depose and say, that he, the 
deponent, heard Joshua James, an Indian, say that he never liked a 
white man in his life, but six dutchmcn that he killed in the Minisinks. 

Charles Cunningham. 

Sworn to and subrcribed before Thomas Foster, Justice. 

Ann Mary Le Roy, of Lancaster, appeared before the Chief Burgess, 
and being sworn on the Holy Evangelists of Almighty God, did depose 
and say, that in the year 175.5, when her father John Jacob Le Roy, and 
many others were murdered by the Indians, at Mahoney, she, her bro- 
ther and some others were mdde prisoners, and taken to Kittaning ; 
that stranger Indians visited them ; the French told them they were 
Conestogo Indians, and that Isaac was the only Indian true to their in- 
terest ; and that the Conestogo Indians, with the exception of Isaac, 
were ready to lift the hatchet when ordered by the French. She asked 
Bill Soc's mother whether she had ever been at Kittaning 1 She said 
No, but her son, Bill Soc, had been there often ; that he was good for 
aothing. 

Mary Le Rot. 

Robert Thompson, Justice. 

The conviction of the guilt of some of the Conestogo In- 
dians having become general, and arousing feelings which the 
circumstances would naturally seem to justify ; and believing 
as they did, that some of the Inpians in Lancaster county 
were exceedingly treacherous, and accessory to the murder, 
a number of them resorted to Manor township, and on Wed- 
nesday, the i4th of December, 1763, at day-break a number 
of them, on horseback, attacked the Indian village, and bar- 
barously massacred some women and children, and a few old 
men ; amongst the latter, the chief — Shaheas — who had al- 
ways been distinguished for his friendship toward the whites. 
The majority of the Indian villagers were abroad at the 
time of the attack. After slaying Shaheas, whose Indian 
name was She-e-hays, George or Wa-a-shen, Harry or Tee- 
kau-ly, Ess-ca-nesh a son of She-e-hays, Sally or Te-a-won- 
sha-i-ong, an old woman, and Ka-ne-un-qu-as, another wo- 
man — all who were at home, they set fire to huts, and most 
of them were burnt down. 



INTRODUCTION. 167 

Lancaster, 14th December, 1763. 
Honored Sir — 

One Robert Edgar, a hired man to Capt. Thomas McKee, living near 
the borough, acquainted me to day that a company of people from the 
frontiers had killed and scalped most of the Indians at the Conestogo 
town early this morning; he said he had the information from an In- 
dian boy who made his escape. 

Mr. Slough has been to the place, and held a Coroner's Inquest on 
the corpses, being six in number. Bill Sawk and some other Indians 
were gone towards Smith's iron works to sell brooms ; but where they 
are now we can't understand ; and the Indians, John Smith and Peggy, 
his wife, and their child, and young Joe Hays, were abroad last night 
too, and lodged at one Peter- Sivar's, about two miles from hence. These 
last came here this afternoon, when we acquainted them what happen- 
ed to their friends and relations, and advised them to put themselves 
under our protection, which they readily agreed to ; and they now are 
m our Workhouse by themselves, where they are well provided for 
with every necessary. 

Warrants are issued for the apprehension of the murderers— said to 
be upwards of fifty men, well armed and mounted. 

I beg my kind compliments to Mr. Richard Penn, and am with all 
due regard, 

Sir, your Honor's obliged friend, and 
Most humble servant, 

Edwabd Shippe:t. 

Hon. John Penn, Governor. 

When Messrs. Beaty and Miller, who had been appointed 
agents by the proprietors to oversee the Indian Town Lands, 
heard of the Indians being killed, went and brought those 
who had been abroad and lodged them in the jail, in Lancas- 
ter, as a place of security. An inquest was held upon the 
bodies of those that had been killed. 

LiNCASTEH, 28th December, 1763. 
May it please your Honor : 

We the subscribers, having been appointed by the Agents of the 
Hon. Proprietaries to oversee the Indian Town Lands and in the Manor 
of Conestogo, beg leave to inform your Honor that, immediately after 
the killing of six Indians at Conestogo, we conducted the residue of 
the Indians, being fourteen in number, to this town, (though at the 
risque of our lives) where they were lodged in the gaol as a place of 
safety. We also secured their papers, and as much of their effects as 
were not destroyed by those who killed them and were not embezzled 
by others. Since that time, the Indians whom we brought to the gaol 
have been killed there. 

We have taken the liberty of troubling your Honor with this letter, 
and pray that we may have directions how to dispose of those effects. 

The particulars of this unhappy affair, we presume will be comma- 



168 INTRODUCTION. 

nicated to your Honor by those whose more immediate duty it is. — 
We are 

Your Honor's most obedient 

Humble servants, 

ROBEUT BeATT, 

John Miller. 
To the Hon. Jno. Penn, Esq., Lieut. Gov. of Pa. 

Lancaster county, ss. 

Inquisition taken at Manor township, in the county of Lancaster, 
the 14th Dec, 1763, before M.Ulhew Slough, Coroner of the county 
aforesaid. 

Upon view of the bodies of six Indians, then and there lying dead, 
by the oath of John Hambright, John Barr, Frederick ytone, James 
Ralf, Patrick Work, George Strieker, V\ ilson Atkinson, Christopher 
Crawford, Christian Wertz, Andrew Graff, and the solemn affirmation 
of Mathias Dehuff, John DehufT, John Miller, and Anthony Snyder, 
good and lawful men of the county aforesaid, who being duly sworn 
and affirmed, tried and charged to inquire on the part of our Sovereign 
Lord, the King, how, and in what manner, the same six Indians came 
by their deaths, upon their oaths and affirmations aforesaid respect- 
ively do say, that the same six Indians, on the day of taking this Inqui- 
sition, were killed by a person or persons, to this Inquest unknown. 
And so the Inquest aforesaid, upon their oaths and affirmations afore- 
said respectively, do say that the same six Indians came by their death 
in the manner aforesaid. 

In testimony whereof, I, said Coroner, have as well as the Jurors and 
affirmants aforesaid to this Inquisition, interchangeably set our hands 
and seals, the day and year above mentioned. 

George Strieker, William Atkinson, John Dehuff, Christopher Craw- 
ford, Christian Wertz, Andrew Graff, John Miller, John Hambright, 
John Barr, Frederick Stone, James Ralf, Patrick Work, Anthony 
Snyder. 

Mathias Slough, Coroner. 

When the news of this massacre reached Philadelphia, 
Governor Penn issued a proclamation offering a reward for 
the perpetrators being brought to trial, and to be proceeded 
with according to law. 

Notwithstanding the Governor's proclamation, and the 
vigilance of pubhc officers, the Indians placed in the work 
house, were not safe, for on Tuesday, the 27th December, 
1763, the Paxtonians and others assembled in great numbers 
in Lancaster, marched to the prison, forced the doors in, and 
says Gordon, butchered all the miserable wretches they found 
within the walls. Unarmed and unprotected, the Indians 
prostrated themselves, with their children, before their mur- 
derers, protesting their innocence and their love to the Eng- 
lish, and in this posture they all received the hatchet. 



INTRODUCTION. 169 

Those slain in the prison were Captain John, whose In- 
dian name was Ky-un-que-a-go-ah, Betty or Ko-wee-na-see, 
his wife ; Bill Soc or Ten-see-daa-qua, Molly or Ka-mi-an- 
guas, his wife ; John Smith or Sa-qui-es-hat-tah, Peggy or 
Chee-na-wan, his wife ; Qua-a-chone, Captain John's son ; 
Jacob or Sha-ee-kah, a little boy ; Ex-un-das, young Shee- 
hay's boy ; Christley or Ton-qu-as, a boy ; Little Peter or 
Hy-ye-na-es, a boy ; Molly or Ko-qua-e-un-quas, a little 
girl ; Ka-ren-do-u-ah, a little girl ; Peggy or Ca-nu-ki-e- 
sung, a little girl.* 

The names of the Indians killed at Indian Town, and those 
in jail for safety, were given to John Hay, Sheriff, by Chee- 
na-wan, wife of Sa-qui-es-hat-tah, and by Ko-wee-na-see, 
wife Ky-un-que-a-go-ah, shortly before they were massacred 
in the jail. — Pro. Rec. S. p. 456. 

From the following letters, written at the time, the reader 
may form some idea of the condition, and death of the inhabi- 
tants of Indian Town, in Manor township. 

Lancaster, 27th Dec. 1763. 

Agreeable to your orders when at Philadelphia, I have inclosed a list 
of the names of the Indians found killed at the Indian Town in Con- 
estogo Manor, with the names of the survivors, fourteen in number, 
whom I found on my return had been collected and placed in the work 
house of this county by my son, with the assistance of John Miller and 
Robert Beaty (who by appointment of Messrs. Hockley and Peters, had 
the care of the Indians belonging to the town) where they are properly 
taken care of and fed, and wait your Honor's farther directions relating 
to them. 

I likewise agreeable to your order give herewith an account of the 
Effects and papers which have been found belonging to the said In- 
dians, which now remain in the possession of the said Miller and Beaty 
in trust for the Indians, to wit: 

Three Horses. 

A writing on parchment pourprting an article of peace and amity 
concluded between the governor of Maryland and the chiefs of the 
Conestogo and other Indians. 

* List of Indians belonging to the Conestogo Indian town, in January 
1755: John Hays, John, Billy Sock, Peter, Billy Sam, Will James, 
Young Peter, Will John, George William, Young Warrior, Isaac, Harry, 
Jemmy Harris, Billy Taylor, Betty,Sally, Margaret, Jemmy Sam, achild; 
Nancy, Peggy, Mary, Young Billy, Young Jo, Old Molly, Old Peggy, 
Peggy Tillehauzey, Jemmy Wright, Young Mary, Young Margaret, 
Hawanah or Big Road, a boy ; Hawonesah, a girl ; Suzy, a girl ; Saw- 
ateah, a girl ; Tuahahuhn, a girl ; Quahawey, a girl ; Whawney, a girl ; 
Kintasa, a girl; Hayenehs, a boy ; Kaquaongush, a girl. — Pro. Record, 
for 1755. 

15 



170 



INTRODUCTION. 



A writing or parchment purporting an article of agreement between 
"William Penn, Proprietary &c., of Pennsylvania and the King of the 
Indians inhabiting in or about the river Susquehannah and other In- 
dian nations, dated the three and twentieth day of the second month 
called April in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and 
one. 

A letter (which seems to be under the lesser seal of the Province) 
signed W. Keith, dated Philadelphia, May 26, 1719, directed to Civility 
and the rest of the Indian chiefs at Conestogo. 

A letter (which seems to, be under the lesser seal of the Province) 
signed W. Keith, dated Philadelphia, 5th May, 1719, directed to Civility 
or Ta-go-te-le-sa, and the Indian chiefs at and near Conestogo. 

A writing purporting a letter signed James Logan, dated the 22d 4th 
mo. 1717, directed to Civility and the other Indian chiefs at Conestogo. 

A paper (which appears to be under the lesser seal of the Province) 
signed James Logan, purporting an order of Council held at Philadel- 
phia, Sept. 28, 1708, or a request to the Indians to apprehend Nichole 
Godin on suspicion of several treasonable practices against the gov- 
ernment. 

And two belts of Wampum. 

December 27, 1763, P. M. 
Honored Sir: 

Since writing the above, the poor Indians whom we imagined were 
placed jn safety, are destroyed. A number of persons (by their ap- 
pearance) of fifty or sixty, armed with rifles, tomahav/ks, &c., sudden- 
ly about two o'clock, rushed into the town and immediately repaired to 
the work house where the Indians were confined, aad notwithstanding 
all opposition of myself and the Coroner, with many others, broke open 
the work house, and have killed all the Indians there, being the four- 
teen mentioned in the list to have survived the former affair at their 
Town. After which, they in a body left the town without offering any 
insults to the inhabitants and without putting it in the power of any 
one to take or molest any of them without danger of life to the person 
attempting it; of which both myself and the Coroner by our opposi- 
tion were in great danger. 

I have, since the above affair, taken from Messrs. Miller and Beaty 
the above mentioned papers and belts of wampum, which I shall keep 
till I have orders from your Honor, and any thing further that I can 
find belonging to the Indians shall be properly taken care of. As it is 
rumored that the people with a superior force intend an attack on the 
Province Island, with a view to destroy the Indians there, I think pro- 
per to mention it to your Honor, and shall do all in my power not only 
to apprehend the offenders, but to preserve the peace of the county. 

I beg your Honor's directions, which I shall endeavor punctually to 
observe, being 

Your Honor's most obedient 

and humble servant, 

JoHW Hat. 
Hon. Jno. Penn, Esq., Gov.— Pro. Etc. S. p. 450, '51. 



INTRODUCTION. 171 

Lancaster, 27th Dec. 1763, Pa. 

Honored Sir : 

I am to acquaint your Honor that between two and three of the 
clock this afternoon, upwards of one hundred armed men from the 
westward rode very fast into town, turned their horses in Mr. Slaugh's 
(an inn-keeper) yard and proceeded with the greatest precipitation to 
the work house, stove open the door and killed all the Indians, and 
then took to their horses and rode off; all their business was done, and 
they were returning to their horses, before I could get half way down 
to the work house. The sheriff and coroner, however, and several 
others, got down as soon as the rioters, but could not prevail with them 
to stop their hands. Some people say they heard them declare they 
would proceed to the Province Island and then destroy the Indians 
there. 

I am with great respect. 

Sir, your Honor's most obedient 

and humble servant, 

Edward Shipper, 
Pro. Rec. S. p. 448, 

The following was written by William Henry, Esq., to a gentleman 
in Philadelphia : 

Lancaster, Tuesday 27, Dec, 1763. 
" There are few if any murders to be compared with the cruel 
murder committed on the Conestogo Indians, in the jail of Lancaster, 
in 1763, by the Paxton Boys, as they were then called. From fifteen to 
twenty Indians, as report stated, were placed there for protection, a 
regiment of Highlanders were at that time quartered at the barracks 
in the town, and yet these murderers were permitted to break open the 
doors of the city jail, and commit the horrid deed. The first notice I 
had of this affair was, that while at my father's store, near the court 
house, I saw a number of people running down street towards the jail, 
which enticed me and other lads to follow them. At about six or eight 
yards from the jail, we met from twenty-five to thirty men, well moun- 
ted on horses, and with rifles, tomahawks and scalping knives, equip- 
ped for murder. I ran into the prison yard, and there, what a horrid 
sight presented itself to my view ! Near the back door of the prison 
lay an old Indian and his squaw, particularly well known and esteemed 
by the people of the town on account of his placid and friendly con- 
duct. His name was Will Soc; across him and the squaw lay two 
children of about the age of three years, whose heads were split with 
tlie tomahawk, and their scalps taken off. Towards the middle of the 
jail yard, along the west side of the wall, lay a stout Indian, whom I 
particularly noticed to have been shot in his breast ; his legs were 
e.hopped with the tomahawk, his hands cut off, and finally a rifle bail 
discharged in his mouth, so that his head was blown to atoms, and the 
brains were splashed against and yet hanging to the wall, for three or 
four feet around. This man's hands and feet had also been chopped 
off with a tomahawk In this manner lay the whole of them, men, 
women and children, spread about the prison yard; shot — scalped— 
hacked and cut to pieces." 



172 INTRODUCTION. 

This tragic affair might have now ended, had not the Pax- 
tonians and others been too highly exasperated. The news 
of this massacre reached those who had the Moravian Indi- 
ans under care, on Province Island, near Philadelphia : but 
no sooner had the intelligence of removing the Indians near 
the city, reached the Paxtonians, than a large number assem- 
bled, and marched to Philadelphia, which produced consider- 
able alarm in the city. "The force of the insurgents was 
considerable; since six companies of foot, one of artillery, and 
two troops of horse, were formed to oppose them ; and some 
thousands of the inhabitants, who did not appear, (including 
Quakers,) were prepared to render assistance, in case an at- 
tempt should be made upon the town." The governor fled 
to the house of Dr. Franklin for safety, and nothing but the 
spiritual measures of the inhabitants of the city saved it from 
the fury of an exasperated multitude, who would not have 
hesitated to extend vengeance from the Indians to their pro- 
tectors.* 

After consultating among themselves, and on salutary ad- 
vice given them, they concluded to peaceably return to their 
homes, leaving Matthew Smith and James Gibson, two of 
their number, to represent their views to government. They 
laid their grievances before the governor and the assembly.! 

After the excitement had been allayed, the bodies of the 
slain were interred, within the limits of Lancaster ; where the 
bones of the last remains of the Conestoga Indians rested un- 
disturbed till the month of May, 1833, when the workmen 
employed in excavating for the railroad, dug them up. The 
place of interment was still well remembered when the bones 
were exhumed, by Peter Maurer, who had been present when 
the bodies were buried. Mr. Maurer is still living near Lan- 
caster city. Governor Penn issued a second proclamation, 
and offered a reward for the discovery of the perpetrators of 
this last act of atrocity. J 

• Gordon's Pa. 406-8. f See Appendix A. i See Appendix E. 



CHAPTER XIII. 

INDIANS MASSACRED AT PENn's CREEK (1768.) 

Indians from Big Island settled on Middle creek— Stump and Ironculter 
killed ten of the Indians and threw their bodies into Middle creek— 
A body of one of them found in Allen township— Blythe carries in- 
teiUgeace of the murder of the Indians to the Governor— Captain 
Patterson and some twenty others arrested Stump and Ironcutter, 
and delivered them to the Sheriff at Carlisle— Patterson's letter to 
the Indians on West Branch— Shawana Ben's reply— Proceedings of 
Provincial Council, &c.— Penn's letters and Proclamations— Penn's 
message to Newoleeka, and other Indians— Stump and Ironculter 
rescued from jail— John Armstrong's letter- James Cunningham's 
deposition before Council and before the Assembly— Sheriff Holme's 
letter— Justices' proceedings at Carlisle ; they arrested a number of 
persons, supposed to have been concerned in Stump's rescue'— Great 
excitement— The magistrates censured; but acquitted; proof of 
their acquittal. 

The case next to be noticed, is the murder committed by 
Frederick Sturap, known as the " Indian Killer," upon sev- 
eral Indian families in Penn township, Cumberland county. 
This happened in the month of January, 1768. 

Two or three families of Indians, one called the White 
Mingo, another Cornelius, one Jonas, and one Camraell, three 
Indian women, two girls and a child, had remove. I from the 
Big Island, on the west branch of Susquehanna, in the spring 
of 1767, came and built themselves cabins on Middle creek, 
about fifteen miles above the mouth of said creek ; where' 
they lived and hunted, and were on friendly terms with their 
white neighbors— were always well received and kindly treat- 
ed. In the month of January, 1768, they came to the house 
of William Blyth, who lived at the mouth of Middle creek. 
He treated them kindly. From his house they went to Fre- 
derick Stumps, who lived near BIyth's, where it is supposed 
some difFerences happened. Here four of the Indians were 
murdered ; their bodies cast into Middle creek, through a 
hole in the ice. Stump, with his servant Ironcutter, (Eisen- 

15* 



174 INTRODUCTION. 

hauser,) then proceeded to a cabin about four miles from his 
house, where he found two Indian girls and one child, whom 
he also murdered, and setting fire to the cabin, endeavored to 
consume the remains. 

The body of one of those thrown into Middle creek, was 
afterwards found, " lying dead within the watermark of the 
river Susquehannah," some distance below the Harrisburg 
bridge, and interred in Allen township, as will appear from 
the following letter, dated 

East Pf.nnsboiiough, Cumberland co., Feb. 29, 1768. 
John Penn, Esq., Hon. Sir: 

We take this opportunity to infcrm you, that on the 27th inst., at 
Allen township, in the county of Cumberland, one James Thompson 
found an Indian man lying dead within the water mark of the river 
Susquehannah, who, without doubt, is one of the Indians Stump killed, 
and was brought down there by the water. As soon as we hoard there- 
of, hearing at the same time that the Coroner was sick, we went down 
and held an inquest on the dead body. He was struck, as appeared to 
us, on his forehead, which broke his scull. There was also a large 
scalp taken off his head which took both of his ears. We held the in- 
quest on the 28th inst., and interred him decently — cut small poles and 
made a pen about his grave. We have nothing material more to in- 
form you of at present, but beg leave to subscribe ourselves, 
Your obedient and humble servants, 

Janes Galbbeath, 
Jonathan Hogk. 

The murder of these Indians produced a prodigious excite- 
ment, at the time, as will appear from all the facts and pro- 
ceedings arising from, and connected with it. As soon as 
this atrocity was made known to the governor of the pro- 
vince, and to Sir William Johnson, Penn issued his procla- 
mation, offering a reward for the apprehension of Stump and 
Ironcutter, promising to punish them with death ; and this 
declaration, with two strings of wampum, he sent to be made 
known to the Indians living on the Susquehanna, requesting 
them not to break the peace in consequence of the murder. 
A message was also sent to the same effect, says Heckewel- 
der, by the governor to the Christian Indians, with the re- 
quest that they should make it known in public assembly ; 
and soon after a special message was sent to the C-hristian 
Indians (at Friedenshuesten) from Sir William Johnson, de- 
siring if they knew any of the relations of those persons mur- 
dered at Middle creek, to send them to him, that he might 
wipe the tears from their eyes, comfort their afflicted hearts^ 



INTRODUCTION. 17-3 

and satisfy them on account of their grievances. Sir William 
Johnson also invited the chief of the Six Nations, and other 
tribes of Indians living on Susquehanna, and on the Ohio to an 
amicable convention. A convention was held, peace and 
friendship again re-established. — For particulars see Hecke- 
welder's Narrative. 

All the circumstances connected with the murder were 
communicated to the governor and council. Mr. Blyth re- 
paired to Philadelphia, and made information upon oath. — 
See extracts of Records below. 

Mr. William Blyth of Penn's township, in Cumberland county, just 
arrived in town, in order to give information to his Honor the Gov- 
ernor, of llie murder of ten Indians, lately committed by Frederick 
Stump, at Middle creek, in that county, appeared at the Board, and be- 
ing examined on oath, related what is contained in the following depo- 
sition, taken in council before the Chief Justice, who was express- 
ly desired to attend for that purpose, viz: 

The deposition of William Blyth of Penn's township, in the county 
oi Cumberland, Farmer, being sworn on the Holy Evangelists of Al- 
mighty God, saith : 

That hearing of the murder of some Indians by one Frederick Stump, 
a German, he went to the house of George Gabriel, where he under- 
stood Slump was, to enquire into the truth of the matter; thai he there 
met with Stump and several others, on the 12th of the present month 
January; and was there informed by the said Stump himself, that on 
Sunday evening before, being the 10th ol the month, six Indians, to 
wit, the White Mingo, an Indian man named Cornelius, one other maa 
named John Campbell, one other man named Jones, and two women 
came to his (Stump's) house, and being in drink, and disorderly, hfi 
endeavored to persuade them to leave his house, which they were not 
inclined to do, and being apprehensive that they intended to do him 
some mischief, killed them all, and afterwards, in order to conceal 
them, dragged them down to a creek near his house, made a hole in 
the ice, and threw them in — And that the said Frederick Slump further 
informed this deponent, that fearing news of his killing the Indians 
might be carried to the other Indians, he went the next day to two 
cabbins about fourteen miles from thence up Middle creek, where he 
found one woman, two girls and one child, which he killed in order lo 
prevent their carrying intelligence of the death of the- other Indians, 
killed as aforesaid, and afterwards put them into the cabbins and burnt 
them; thai this deponent afterwards sent four men np the creek, to 
where the cabbins were, to know the truth of the matter, who upon 
their return, informed him that they had found the cabbins burnt, and 
discovered some remains of the limbs of some Indians who had been 
burned in them — And further saith not. 

William Bltth. 

Sworn at Philadelphia the 19th day of January, 1768, before me, 
William Allen. 



176 INTRODUCTION. 

As soon as Capt. William Patterson, (formerly of Lancas- 
ter county, then residing on the Juniata) heard of this atro- 
cious act, went, without waiting orders from the governor, 
with a party of nineteen men, and arrested Stump and Iron- 
cutter, and delivered them to John Holmes, sheriff at Car- 
lisle jail. Aware that the relatives of the murdered Indians 
would be, on the receipt of this news, exasperated, he sent 
one Gersham Hicks, with a message to the Indians at Big 
Island, on the west branch of the Susquehanna. 

Carlisle, January 23, 1768. 

Sir: 

The 2lst instant. I marched a party of nineteen men to George 
Gabriel's house, ai Penn's creek mouth, and made prisoners of Fred- 
erick Stump and John Ironcutter, who were suspected to have murder- 
ed ten of our friend-Indians, near Fort Augusta; and I have this day 
delivered them to Mr. Holmes at Carlisle jail. 

Yesterday I sent a person to the Great Island, that understood the 
Indian language, with a talk ; a copy of which is enclosed . 

Myself and Party, were exposed to great danger, by the desperate 
resistance made by Stump and his friends, who sided with him. The 
«ieps I have taken, I flatter myself, will not be disapproved of by the 
gentlemen in the government; ;ny sole view being directed to the ser- 
vice of the frontiers, before I heard his Honor the governor's orders— 
The message I have sent to the Indians, I hope will not be deemed as- 
suming an authority of my own, as you are very sensible I am no 
stranger to the Indians, and their customs. I am, with respect, 
Your most obedient 

humble servant, 

W. PATTKKSOlf. 

JusiATA, January 22. 1768. 

" Brothers of the Six Nations, Delaware^, and other inhabitants of 
the West Branch of Susquehanna, hear what I have to say to yoa. — 
With a heart swelled with grief, I have to inform you, that Frederick 
Slump and John Ironcutter, hath, unadvisedly, murdered ten of our 
friend-Indians near Fort Augusta — The inhabitants of the Province of 
Pennsylvania do disapprove of the said Stump and Ironcutter's con- 
duct; and as proof thereof, 1 have taken them prisoners, and will de- 
liver them into the custody of officers, that will keep them ironed in 
prison for trial ; and I make no doubt, as many of them as are guilty, 
will be condemned, and die for the offence. 

•' Brothers, I being truly sensible of the injury done you, I only add 
these few words, with my heart's wish, that you may not rashly let go 
the fast hold of our chain of friendship, for the ill conduct of one of 
our bad men. Believe me, Brothers, we Englishmen continue the same 
love for you that hath usually subsisted between our granr'-f'alhers, and 
I desire you to call at Fort Augusta, to trade with our people, for the 
necessaries yon stand in need of. I pledge you my word, that bo 



INTRODUCTION. 177 

while man there .>hall molest any of you, while you behave as friends. 
I shall not rest by night nor day. until I receive your answer. 
Your friend and Brother, 

W. Pattehsoit. 

The following is an answer to Captain Patterson's message, of Jan- 
uary 22, 1768. 

,- . „ " Febkuaut 11th, 1768. 

" Lioving Brother: 

I received your speech by Gertham Hicks, and have sent one of my 
relatives with a string of wampum, and the following answer : 

Loving Brother : 

I am glad to hear from you— I understand that you are very much 
gneved, and that the tears run from your eyes— With both my hands I 
now wipe away those tears : and, as I don't doubt but your heart is dis- 
turbed, I remove all the sorrow from it, and make it easy as it was be- 
fore. I will now sit down and smoke my pipe. I have taken fast hold 
of the chain of friendship ; and when I give it a pull, if I find my 
brothers, the English, have let it go, and it will then be time for me to 
let go too, and take care of my /amily— There are four of my relatives 
murdered by Slump; and all I desire is, that he may sulfer for his 
wicked action ; I shall then think that people have the same goodness 
in their hearts as formerly, and intend to keep it there. As it was the 
evil spirit who caused Stump to commit this bad action, I blame none 
ol my brothers, the English, but him. 

I desire that the people of Juniata may sit still on their places, and 
not put themselves to any hardships, by leaving their habitations ; 
whenever danger is coming, they shall know it before it comes on them. 
I am, 

Your loving Brother, 

_, SUAWANA BkW. 

10 Capt. William Patterson.— Pro. Rec. T. 286, '87. 

The coiincil, after examining Mr. Blyth, immediately took 
this most important matter into consideration, and were of 
opinion that warrants should forthwith be issued b^ the chief 
justice, directed to the sheriffs, under sheriffs, and other offi- 
cers of the province, and particularly to those of the counties 
ot Cumberland, Lancaster and Berks, for the apprehending 
of the above mentioned Frederick Stump, and bringing him 
before one of his Majesty's Justices of Oyer and Terminer, 
to be dealt with according to law. The Board also advised 
the Governor to issue a proclamation offering a reward of 
£200 for apprehending said offender, and bringing him to 
justice; but to delay the publication of the same for a short 
time, till other more secret means should be used for taking 
him, lest news of such a proclamation should reach his ear, 
and he might be thereby so alarmed, as to abscond, or make 



178 INTRODUCTION. 

his escape, before any sherifT could arrive at Perm's creek, 
M'here it is believed he continues to remain with his family. 
They therefore advised the governor to write immediately to 
the magistrates of Cumberland county, strictly requiring them 
to exert themiulves on this occasion, by giving their best as- 
sistance to the sheriff and other officers, and taking all other 
measures in their power for apprehending and securing the 
said Frederick Stump, and also to despatch letters of the 
same kind to the magistrates of Lancaster and Berks coun- 
ties, instructing them to send their sheriffs with sufficient aid 
to the utmost limits of those counties on the Susquehanna, so 
8S to be nearly opposite to Middle creek, that they may be 
in readiness to apprehend the said Stump, in case he should 
cross the river to retire to either of those counties. 

The Board further advised the governor to write to Gene- 
ral Gage and Sir William Johnson, acquainting them with 
this unhappy accident, and the steps he is taking on this oc- 
casion, and to request Sir William will be pleased to commu- 
nicate the same as soon as possible lo the Six Nations, in the 
best and most favorable manner in his power, so as to prevent 
'their taking immediate resentment for this unavoidable injury, 
committed on their people, and to assure them of the firm and 
sincere purposes of this government to give them full satisfac- 
tion at all times for all wrongs done to the Indians, and to pre- 
serve the friendship subsisting between us and them inviolable. 
Accordingly, the chief justices warrants and several letters 
to the magistrates of Cumberland, Lancaster and Berks coun- 
ties, Were prepared without delay and despatched by ex- 
press.* But before those letters, and the proclamation of 
chief justice Allen reached the magistrates and sheriffs, Stump 
and Ironcutter, as above stated, had been lodged in jtiil ; but 
before they were brought to trial, were rescued from prison 
by their friends and neighbors, whose fears were excited that 
, Stump and L'oncutter were to be taken to Philadelphia, there 
to be tried, they " not properly disfinguishmg between exam- 
ination and TRIAL,"! rescued them from prison, on the 29th 
of January, and carried them off. 

Governor Penn sent a message express to the chiefs on 

• Proclamations and several letters are g;iven in the Appendix F. 
t Rev. Duffield's statement, Feb. 19, 1768. Pa. Gaz. March 3, 1768— 
See Appendix. 



INTRODUCTION. 179 

Great Island, in which he deplores the deaths of the Indians. 

A Message from the Governor of Pennsylvania to Ne-wo-lee-ka, the 
chief of the Delawares, and to other Indians at the Great Island. 

Brother Ne-wo-lee-ka : 

The Indian man Billy Champion, who is the bearer of this letter, 
has informed me there were some white people in your parts, survey- 
ing and marking out lands, under a pretence of hunting; and you sent 
him to desire to know, if this was done by my order or knowledge. I 
assure you it was not. It is a wicked thing, contrary to my treaties 
with you, and contrary to our laws and my proclamations. I will make 
it my business to find them out ; and, if you know who they are, I de- 
sire you will inform me, that they may be taken and brought to justice. 
The string herewith sent confirms my words. 

A Striws. 

Brother: I am glad this Indian man Bill came down at this time, for 
it gives me an opportunity of informing you of a melancholy affair 
which I have only heard of within these few days, and which fills the 
hearts of all your Brethren with the deepest sorrow and grief. It is 
this : two or three families of Indians, namely the White Mingo, Jonas 
and John Cammell, three women, two girls and a child, left the Big 
Island in the spring and came and built themselves cabins on Middle 
creek, about fifteen miles up the creek, there they lived and hunted, and 
were often with our people, and were always well received and kijidly 
treated by them. About ten days ago they were at Mr. Wm. Blythe's, 
who lives at the mouth of Middle creek, who treated them kindly ; and 
from his house they went to one Frederick Stump's, a Dutchman, who 
lives in that neighborhood. There it is supposed some difference hap- 
pened, but what it was we have not heard, but they were all found mur- 
dered ; six of them in Stump's own house ; and four at a certain cabin 
at some distance from it. I am further informed. Stump says he killed 
them all with his own hands, and that there was no other person con- 
cerned with him, in the fact. 

On my receiving this melancholy account, the sheriff was immedi- 
ately sent with his officers to take up this Stump as the murderer ; and 
for their encouragement, I offered them a reward of two hundred 
pounds ; and I am in hopes he is by this time taken ; and no time shall 
be lost to bring him to his trial that he may suffer death in the same 
manner as he would have done, had he killed some white men. 

Brother: I consider this matter in no other light, than as the act of 
a wicked, rash man, and I hope you will also consider it in the same 
way, and not imagine that since it was done by one man in the manner 
I have related it to you, that any other persons have been concerned in 
it, or that^it has been in any way encouraged by any of my people, I 
assure you it has not. 

Brother: There are among you and us some wild, rash, mad-headed 
people, who commit actions of this sort. Whenever it so happens, all 
that can be done, is immediately to acquaint each other of them, and 
to bring the offenders to justice, that it may make no breach between 
ns, but be considered as a rash, sudden act, that could not be prevent- 
ed: and. we now inform you farther, that we are going to send off a 
messenger immediately to the relations of the deceased people, wlio. 



180 INTRODUCTION. 

we hear, live near Chenasse (Genesee) to inform them, aud the Seneca 
Nation, to whom they belong, of this murder; and to bury their bodies 
and wipe their tears from their eyes, that it may not break the friend- 
ship subsisting between us the Indians ; but that we may live together 
and love one another as we did before this melancholy accident hap- 
pened. 

This belt confirms my words. 

A Belt of Wampum. 

Brother: I desire this belt of wampum may be sent to any of our 
brethren near you, that they may not be fiightened, or think the Eng- 
lish are not their friends. Assure them to the contrary ; and that we 
will keep the chain of friendship entire and bright, notwithstanding 
this accident. To confirm this my request, I give you this string. 

A String. 

puvx^ Given under my hand and the Lesser Seal of the Prov- 
C Locus 7 ince ot Pennsylvania, at Philadelphia, the 23d of January, 
iisigili. 5 1768. 

V.^V">ta^ John Pehk. 

By his Honor's command : 

Joseph Shippen, Jr., Secretary. 

Immediately on the rescue of the prisoners, Mr. Armstrong 
sent a letter express, by Mr. Cunningham, to governor Penn, 
informing him of what had happened. Mr. Cunningham's 
deposition was taken, by Chief Justice Allen, before the 
council and Assembly, whereupon the governor issued a proc- 
lamation for the apprehension of the prisoners. 

Cablisle, January 29lh, 1768. 
John Penn, Esq., Hon. Sir: 

In this perturbation of mind, I cannot write ; but in real distress, 
only inform your Honor, that we are deceived and disgraced at once ; 
for about ten o'clock this morning, to the number of seventy or eighty 
men under arms surrounded our jail, when a number of them unknown 
to the magistrates, I must say, appear to have had too ready entrance 
into the dungeon, and in less than ten minutes time, they carried off 
Stump and his servant, in open triumph and violation of the law. — 
The few magistrates that were present, Messrs. Miller and Lyon and 
myself, have, I hope, obviously enough done our duty ; but while we 
were engaged at the prison door, exerting ourselves both by force and 
argument, a party, utterly without our knowledge, was in the dungeon, 
of which we were not acquainted either by the jailer, or any other per- 
son, who, before we were aware of it, had the prisoners in the open 
street, when we were unable to make further opposition, and they were 
gone in less than a second. 

The jailor says that a pistol was held at his breast, and this is all 
we can at present say of that circumstance. These rioters give as 
reasons for their conduct that the prisoners were to be carried to Phi- 
ladelphia for trial — that a number of white men have been killed by the 
Indians since the peace, and the Indians have not been brought to jus- 
tice, &c. At present we know not what step to take for the best, and 



INTRODUCTION. 



181 



beg leave to be favored with your Honor's further instructions. I have 
written in the presence of the two magistrates mentioned above, and 
am 

Your Honor's 

Most obedient servant, 

John Ahmstrosg. 
P. S. The bearer, Mr. Cunningham, is a prudent young man — knows 
the state of these things, and may be depended on in any questions 
your Honor, or the chief justice may think proper to ask. 

James Cunningham appeared before the Board, Thursday, 
Feb. 4, 1768 — his deposition taken in the presence of John 
Penn, Esq. James Hamilton, VVm. Logan, Benj. Chew, Rich- 
ard Penn and James Tilghman, was examined, and his depo- 
sition taken. 

James Cunningham of Lancaster county, farmer, being 
sworn on the Holy Evangelists of Almighty God, deposeth 
and saith, that on Friday, the 29th day of January last, about 
nine or ten o'clock in the forenoon, as he was sitting at break- 
fast with John Armstrong, Esq-, in the town of Carlisle, in 
the county of Cumberland, he was surprised to see a number 
of armed men surrounding, on a sudden, the public jail in the 
said town, that he, and the said John Armstrong, apprehend- 
ing that the said company met with an intention to rescue 
from the said jail a certain Frederick Stump and John Iron- 
cutter, who were confined there for the murder of a number 
of Indians, they both instantly ran to the said jail in order 
to prevent, if possible, the execution of so wickeil and illegal 
a design- That when they got up to the said jail, the said 
John Armstrong made his way through a number of armed 
men, who stood before the door of the said jail, which was 
open, and guarded by four men, who stood within the door 
with arms in their hands ; that the said John Armstrong, and 
John Holmes, high sheriff of the said county, both attempted 
to go into the door of the jail, but were several times pushed 
beck and prevented : that as the said John Armstrong stood 
on the steps, under the door, he addressed himself frequently 
to the armed coiTipany who were about him, and used many 
arguments to persuade them to desist from their lawless ur- 
dertaking, and told them, among other things, that they were 
about to do an act which would subject themselves and their 
country to misery. That while the said Armstrong wfts 
speaking, this deponent saw one man take hold of him, and 
draw him down the said steps, upon which the said Armstrong 

16 



182 



INTRODUCTION. 



by violence pushed back the person who had hold of him, and 
regained his stand on the said steps, saying at the same time, 
that they should take his life before they should rescue the 
prisoners. This deponent further saith, that M'hile the said 
John Armstrong and Robert Miller, and Wm. Lyon, Esq., 
and the Rev. J. Steel, who had joined the said Armstrong, 
were endeavoring to disperse the said company, several other 
armed men appeared within side the said jail, to the very 
great surprise of every one, with the two prisoners above 
mentioned in their possession, whom they brought forward, 
and after pushing the said Armstrong, Miller, Lyon, Steel, 
Holmes, and this deponent, by violence and crowding from 
before the said jail door, carried them off with shouts and 
rejoicing, and immediately left the town. This deponent 
further saith that he carmot with certainty declare what num- 
bers were in the company which made the said rescue, but 
that from the best judgment he could form, there were 70 or 
80, all armed with guns, and some tomahawks. This depo- 
nent further saith, on his solemn oath, that he does not know, 
nor has any personal knowledge of any one of the persons he 
saw in the said company, concerned in the said rescue, and 
that after the said company had left the town, the Rev. Steel 
came to the said Armstrong and Mr. Lyons and Holmes, and 
informed them that the said rescuers desired they would come 
to, and confer with them at the plantation of John Davis, to 
come to some terms with them. That the said three last 
mentioned persons immediately mounted their horses and went 
towards the said Davis's, but informed this deponent that on 
their return, that the said company had altered their resolu- 
tion, and had gone on without waiting for them ; and further 
saith not. — Prov. Rec. T. p. 254-55. 

James Cunningham. 
Taken and sworn before the Governor 
and council, Feb. 4, 1768. 

Deposition of James Cunningham, of the county of Lancas- 
ter, being sworn according to law, taken an oath, adminis- 
tered by the Chief Justice, before +he House, February 4, 
1768. ' y - 

That about ten o'clock last Friday morning, as he sat at 
breakfast, with Col. John Armstrong, in the town of Carlisle, 
looking through a window opposite to the prison, he saw a 



INTRODUCTION. 183 

number of armed men running towards the back of the jail, 
of which acquainting the colonel, they both rose from the ta- 
ble, run into the street, and made their way through the arm- 
ed men to the jail door, the colonel calling out to the people 
that they were acting a bad part, or words to that effect, and 
desiring them, as they could not be all reasoned with, to 
choose out three or four, or half a dozen of their leaders, and 
he would convince them that they were acting a part that 
must subject them and their country to misery ; that the Rev. 
Mr. Steel came out and spoke to the people to the same ef- 
fect ; that the Colonel, Mr. Miller, Mr. Lyon, the Sherifi', 
the deponent and others, having got to the jail door, forced 
all the people from it, except four armed men, who stood 
within the door with their muskets across it ; that some of the 
armed men within pushed the Colonel down the steps, who, 
having recovered himself, said to them: Gentlemen, I am un- 
armed, and it is in your power to kill me, but I will die on 
the spot before you shall rescue the prisoners. Mr. Miller 
spoke in like manner ; that while the magistrates and sheriff 
were thus attempting in vain to get at the door, to the sur- 
prise of every one but the mob, the prisoners were brought 
out, (Stump handcuffed, the servant not) when the people 
accompanying them, called out to the mob, " make way, here 
are the prisoners;" many shouting out, "we have them," and 
immediately run off with them — that the deponent had no 
personal knowledge of any of the rescuers, but, to the best 
of his memory, was informed by the jailer, that one of the 
persons who had hold of him in the jail, was named James 
Morrow; that he also heard, but knows not from whom, that 
there was one among them by the name of Beard ; likewise 
Adams, Parker, Williams, or Williamson, and one John Mor- 
row, who was on the outside of the jail armed : that after the 
mob and prisoners were gone off, Mr. Steel came down to Col. 
Armstrong's, and informed him he had seen two that he sus- 
pected were of the party, who told him they wanted the Co- 
lonel, Mr. Lyon, and the Sheriff to go to John Davis's place 
at the creek, about two miles off, to converse with them, 
hoping they might come to terms ; that upon this notice, the 
Colonel, Mr. Lyon and the sheriff, immediately took their 
horses and went off: that a little before sunset they returned, 
when Colonel Armstrong told this deponent they had gone to 
Davis's, and to some other house farther off, (he does not 



184 INTRODUCTION. 

remember the name) and were there acquainted that the mob 
being apprehensive a party might pursue them and retake the 
prisoners, had moved off with them from that place, thinking 
it was unsafe to stay longer ; that Justice Byers having heard 
of the matter, met them here, and Colonel Armstrong sent a 
messenger, with a few lines, after the mob, setting forth to 
them the danger they were in, and the mischievous conse- 
quences of such conduct, and advising them to return and sur- 
render the prisoners to justice ; that the deponent was told 
the names of the rioters above mentioned by Colonel Arm- 
strong, Mr. Miller, Mr. Lyon, or the sheriff, but he is not 
certain which of them ; and that alter the rescue, he heard a 
company of lads say they saw the mob going along with the 
prisoners, and carrying a Smith with them, (named McGone- 
gal) with a pistol held to his breast ; that three men from 
Carlisle, to wit, Ephraim Blain, Ralph Nailor and Joseph 
Hunter, told the deponent he had followed the mob to one 
Ferguson's, near the foot of the North mountain, six or seven 
miles from Carlisle, and coming up with them, endeavored to 
convince them they had done wrong, and ought to give up 
the prisoners to government ; that some appeared concerned, 
as if convicted of misconduct, and thereupon told these men, 
that if they could have security that the prisoners should not 
be carried to Philadelphia for trial, they would take care of 
them, and engage they should be delivered up to justice ; — 
that the said Blain, Nailor and Hunter, however, gave them 
no encouragement to expect the security they wanted, but 
acquainted them they would mention it to the magistrates 
and Sheriff; that after this deponent heard some talk of the 
magistrates and sheriff's hitending to go out to the mob, but 
they were gone up when he left Carlisle; that the deponent 
heard on the Wednesday before the rescue, the magistrates 
met to consult on some matter, he supposes it might be about 
sending the prisoners to Philadelphia, when a party of armed 
men appeared in sight of Carlisle, from whom two persons, 
John Davis and John McClure, came to town, and he was 
told, informed the magistrates that this party were coming to 
rescue the prisoners from jail, understanding the sheriff was 
to take them to Philadelphia that day: that two young men 
came also from the said party to town, to speak to the sher- 
iff, having heard the prisoners were cruelly treated, and were 
to be sent to Philadelphia for trial ; that upon talking with 



INTRODUCTION. 185 

the sheriff, and being convinced that the prisoners were not 
ill used, nor to be carried to Philadelphia to be tried, but only 
for examination, they seemed satisfied and returned to their 
party, who fired their muskets and moved off; that the sher- 
iff told this to the magistrates, and the deponents heard they 
advised the sheriff to be careful of the jail doors, but he does 
not know that the magistrates placed a guard or took any 
other method for strengthening and securing the prison ; that 
on the morning of the rescue, before the mob appeared, two 
men, as the deponent was informed, went into the jail, the 
door being open, called for some liquor, and were talking with 
the jailer, when a party of armed men rushing in, the two 
that first entered, seized the jailer and hurried him to a back 
apartment, where the debtors are kept, one drew a pistol and 
put it to his breast, the other a cutlass or hanger, and swore 
that he was a dead man if he made any noise or resistance ; 
that a part of the mob, in the meantime, got into thedungeon, 
a girl hired by the jailer having, the deponent knows not 
whether by threats or persuasion, furnished them with the 
keys and a candle, or (as he once heard) the door being bro- 
ken by force ; that the deponent was in the dungeon when 
the prisoners were committed, at which time their legs, he 
thinks, were ironed and chained to the floor ; that before the 
day of rescue he went down again with parson Bogart, (Bu- 
cher) and then the servant lad being sick and his hands much 
swelled with the tying ; when brought to Carlisle, he found 
all the irons had been taken off the lad, and those also upon 
the legs of Stump, but that Stump yet continued handcuffed ; 
that the deponent being about going to Lancaster county 
where he lived, was desired by the jailer, who had heard that 
Stump's friends in that county would oppose his going to Phi- 
ladelphia, to use his influence with them to quiet their minds 
and discourage them from so rash an attempt; but that he was 
informed, and believes, the principal part of the rescuers were 
inhabitants of Schearman's valley, about twelve miles from 
Cai lisle. 

Here deponent was asked, if he knew the reason why the 
sheriff did not, agreeable to the Chief Justices writ, immedi- 
ately bring the prisoners to Philadelphia ? 

Answer. That Stump and his servant were brought into 
Carlisle late on Saturday night, when they were put mto iail 
and the next day the sheriff endeavored to procure a cuard 

16* ^ 



186 



INTRODUCTION. 



to set out with them on Monday morning for Philadelphia — 
that the guard were accordingly ready on Monday morning, 
and the deponent, intended at that time to go homewards, was 
desired by the sheriff to make one of the party, and provided 
himself with arms for that purpose; that the sheriff being 
thus prepared, determined to set off, and had the irons taken 
from the prisoners, and their arms bound; that just at this 
juncture Mr. Miller and M. Pollock, going to Colonel Arm- 
strong's, mentioned some uneasiness the people were under, 
on account of Stump's removal to Philadelphia, alleging, that 
it would not be proper to set off with the prisoners that day, 
the weather being bad, and the Susquehanna supposed to be 
dangerous, as it had been stopped by ice the week before, 
and that in case they should proceed to the river and find it 
impassable, an attempt might be made there to rescue the 
prisoners, which would probably be attended with dangerous 
consequences to the sherifi" and his guard; — that Col. Arm- 
strong, upon these suggestions, sent for the sheriff from the 
jail, who, with a number of town's people, met at the Col.'s 
house, when some were of opinion that it was not advisable 
to set out that day ; others encouraged the attempt ; but, in 
fine, it was concluded best to defer it, Col. Armstrong and 
the sheriff were for going ; Messrs. Miller and Lyon object- 
ed to it, for the reasons above mentioned, without assigning 
any others that the deponent remembers; Mr. Pollock, Mr. 
Sweeny,* a lawyer, and some others, thought it improper, 
because illegal, to remove the prisoners from the county ; — 
that Mr. Tea, and Mr. Campbell, a lawyer, urged strenu- 
ously to bring them down, and further deponent saith not. 

James Cunningham. 
William Allen, Chief Justice.! 
February 1768. 

Carlisle, Feb. 7th, 1768. 
Hon. John Penn : 

Please your Honor — 
Though I am very certain you will receive full intelligence of the 
affair of Frederick Stump before this can reach you ; yet as mj' con- 
duct and character are so much concerned, I pray your Honor to re- 
ceive the following plain statement of the case, as ail the vindication I 

* William Sweeny (Swainey) was admiued to practice at the Lan- 
caster Bar in 1766. His. Lan. co. p. 368. 
t Votes of Assembly VI. p. 35-37. 



INTRODUCTION. 187 

can offer of my conduct. James Galbreath, Esq., brought to Carlisle, 
and delivered to me the chief justice's warrant on the 3d day of Janu- 
a^3^ Immediately on the receipt thereof, I summoned a guard to attend 
me next day to go in quest of Stump ; but that very evening, Captain 
Patterson brought him with his servants, and delivered them to me. 
Next day I summoned a guard to set off in obedience to the chief jus- 
tice's warrant, having the same morning received a letter from the 
sheriff of Lancaster, who waited for me at John Harris'. Col. Arm- 
strong sent for me, and told me they had concluded to keep Stump, and 
not send him down. I alleged to him, I was not obliged to obey any 
orders of any magistrate in Cumberland county, as I had the chief ma- 
gistrate's warrant to the contrary. But he insisted I should not take him 
off, but discharge my guard, which I absolutely refused, whereupon the 
Col. went to jail and discharged my guard, brought up the prisoner, 
examined him and by wn^iwws, committed him, and wrote to some other 
justices to attend in Carlisle on Wednesday. On Wednesday, while said 
justices were sitting in council, a large party under arms came very 
near Carlisle and sent in messengers to the magistrates and to me. 
claiming that they should be well used, and not sent to Phila. Being 
sadsfied that they were properly used, and having been told they were 
committed to our jail, they dispersed. The magistrate wrote a full ac- 
count to the chief justice, and I made free to acquaint him that I was 
ready to execute his orders, if he thought proper to call for the prison- 
ers, being persuaded now we should meet with no further trouble from 
the country ; but on the 29th January, another large body of armed men, 
thought to be mostly the former, joined with a party from Sherman's 
valley, on a sudden rushed into town, and marched up to the jail, hav- 
ing sent a few without arms, to appear before them, who went into the 
jail when the company came up, seized the prisoner, making the jailor 
and his family prisoners ; we labored with the armed men to disperse, 
to offer no violence, not dreaming they had got into prison, when, un- 
expectedly, they brought out Stump and made off. Mr. Steel, at my re- 
quest, followed them to the creek, two miles from town, but labored in 
vain. 

On Sunday I called a possp, and set off earl/ on Monday into Sher- 
man's valley. Several magistrates and most of the principal inhabit- 
ants of Carlisle and in the coun ry attended, but we could neither find 
out where they had concealed Stump, nor by any arguments prevail 
with them to deliver him to us. Since this, they wrote me unless the 
Governor, Mr. Allen, (who was then chief justice) another gentleman 
of note, would oblige themselves that Stump should not be taken out of 
the county. 

Please your Honor, I have given you a plain and true account of the 
affair, and pray that I may not be considered as designing or acting in 
disobedience to the chief justice's warrant, as I am persuaded your ho- 
nor will plainly see. 

I purpose to set off into Sherman's valley again to-morrow, and do 
what lies in my power to have the prisoners delivered up; though I 
fear that infatuated people will pay very little regard to my endeavors.* 

I am your Honor's, &c. 

John Holmes. 

Prov. Rec. T. p. 268-69. 



188 INTRODUCTION. 

Nothing was left undone on the part of government, and 
the magistrates to re-take the escaped prisoners, and bring 
them to trial, also punish those who aided in their rescue. — 
The magistrates of Cumberland issued warrants for appie- 
hending and securing in jail those concerned in the rescue. — 
They discovered some twenty or more. 

CARLISLE, Feb. 28, 1768. 
May it please your Honor: 

Your commands per Capt. William Patterson of the 20th inst. came 
to hand on the 24ih. On receipt, a number of the justices met the same 
evening, at Carliste, (Mr. Montgomery assisting) to concert measures, 
how to execute your Honor's injunctions in the most effectual manner. 
As it appeared to us utterly impossible that these licentious people who 
rescued Stump, would, or ever had it in their power to return to justice 
the perpetrators of the late murder on the Indians, and as the best in- 
telligence we can gain, renders it matter of scruple whether he be lu 
our county, we proceeded to take information on oath, and issue war- 
rants to the proper officers for apprehending and securing in jail these 
villains, who were concerned in the rescue. We have transmitted a 
copy of your Honor's injunction to the justices of the upper end of the 
county with our advice to exert themselves; as it appeared to us pro- 
bable that the murderers might take that way to Virginia where ic is 
thought they will seek refuge. 

We cannot sufficiently acquit ourselves in not acquainting your Ho- 
nor, yet we can assure you the sheriff, justices and several of the prin- 
cipal people here, have r-xerled themselves with all their might, to re- 
gain Stump and Ironculter, though we have not had success, we are 
persuaded all pains will be used by the proper officers to apprehend 
the rioters and that the magistrates will be aiding hereunto with all 
their influence. 

With all wise and good men, we abhor the base insult on govern- 
ment, sensible of the direct tendency of such a crime, to the subversion 
of order, justice and propriety. 

We are concerned your Honor's order and the chief justices warrant 
were not immediately complied with, which we conceived might hare 
been done with safety before these licentious people had time to cabal and 
contrive their plan, this, we think, might have prevented such disagree- 
able consequences, nor can we conceive why it was not done. But 
your Honor no doubt has had reasons laid before you. 

We are with many others highly pleased with the brave conduct of 
Capt. William Patterson, (he did honor to our county) and the notice 
your Honor has taken of merit in the manner of expressing your ap- 
probation, we persuade ourselves, will influence not only the young 
man himself, but others to behave worthily. 

We gratefully respect your Honor's goodness in repeating your in- 
juQctioQS of the 4ih inst,, as most of us had not the pleasure of seeing 



INTRODUCTION. 189 

them before. We shall willingly receive from time to time, what com- 
mands your Honor may think proper.* 
We are your Honor's 

most obedient and humble servants, 

Jonathan Hogk, 
Jas. Galbiieatu, 
Andw. Calhoun, 
^ Jno. Btf.rs, 

Jno. McKnight, 
Herms. Alhicks. 

Copy of a list of names enclosed in the original letter, preserved at 
Harrisburg. 

James Murry, John Murry, Andw. Jones, James Hamilton, Richd. 

Shenky, Richd. Irwin, Neilson, Francis Irwin, Joseph Chiiders, 

James Rody, Wm. Adams, Thos. Huitt, Jno. Glass, James Ferguson, 
Joseph McDowel, William Williams, Jno. Clark, Wm. McGary, Jno. 
Beard, Matthew Gregg, Joseph Goldon, James Eakles, Wm. Willson. 

The murdering of the Indians and the subsequent rescue 
of Stump and Ironcutter, produced a great excitement, not 
only at Carlisle, but through the whole country. The mag- 
istrates and sheriff, it appears had been censured.f But, the 
Compiler inclines to think, in examining some documentary 
evidence that the officers, sheriff and magistrates, did not 
favor the prisoners. In support of this opinion the following 
is submitted. 

On the 26th of February, 1768, Governor John Penn, 
wrote to Col. John Armstrong, desiring him to appear before 
the Board of the Provincial Council. — Prov. Rec. Vol. T. 
291. 

On the 19th of March, the Governor informed the Board 
that both John Armstrong and John Holmes, the sheriff of 
Cumberland, were in town to attend the Council, in order to 
be examined with respect to their conduct. They appeared 
— "each related the circumstances respecting the detention 
of Frederick Stump in the jail at Carlisle, the reasons for 
taking that measure, as well as the manner and cause of his 
rescue, and then laid before the Board sundry depositions in 
proof of what they respectfully alleged. 

" It appearing in their examination, that they disagreed in 

• Prov. Rec. T. 294-5. 

f If tradition, as a late Sabido, would, is to be credited, rather than 
documentary testimony, then it would appear that "The sheriff and 
jailer were principal actors in freeing Stump and Ironcutter."— Sacudido. 



190 INTRODUCTION. 

some particnlars, and that Robert Miller and William Lyon, 
Esqrs., Justices of the Peace, were also concerned in pre- 
venting the execution of the Chief Justice's warrant ; the 
Council were of opinion init they also should be examined 
with respect to their cor^^uct and knowledge in this matter, 
before any proper judgment can be given on it." 

The Board advised the Governor to have Miller and Lyon 
to appear before ihem. They were accordingly commanded 
to appear before the Board in the monlh of May. — Pro. Rec. 
T. page 298. 

On the 6th of May, Col. Armstrong, Miller, and Lyon, 
Esqrs., appeared before John Penn, William Logan, Benja- 
min Chew, Richard Penn, and James Tilghman, members of 
the Board of Council, and "were severally examined with 
respect to their own conduct in the detention of Frederick 
Stump in the jail at Carlisle, as well as all that they knew 
in regard to his rescue from the hands of justice. The Board 
agreed to take this matter into further consideration and ap- 
pointed a meeting of the Council to be held the 12th of 
May, in order to come to a final result on the subject. — 
Prov. Rec. T. 319-20. 

Depositions, still on file at Harrisburg, had been presented 
on the 19th of March and on the 6th of May ; affording the 
Council some aid to come as it is not unreasonable to sup- 
pose, to a correct conclusion as to the guilt or innocence of 
the persons accused in the detention and rescue of Stump — 
and it is also not incredible to believe that Gov. Penn, who 
had evidence before him of the true state of the case, would 
not shrink to pronounce a true verdict — not exculpate, or 
acquaint the sheriff if he was indeed a principal actor in 
freeing the prisoners from jail, and rescuing them from the 
justices. 

The 12th day of May the Board met, and came to a final 
result on the subject. What that was, the reader may learn 
from the following extract from the Provincial Records. 

" At a Council held at Philadelphia, on Thursday the 12th 
of May, 1768— present : The Hon. John Penn, Esq., Lieut. 
Gov. &c. WilUam Logan, James Tilghman, Esqrs. 

Mr. Armstrong, Mr. Miller, and Mr. Lyon appearing at 
the Board, agreeable to the Governor's appointment, the 
following admonition, which was read to them, viz : 

Col. Armstrong, Mr. Miller, and Mr. Lyon — Upon the 



INTRODUCTION. 191 

rescue of Frederick Stump, and John Ironcutter, who had 
been arrested for the murder of ten Indians, I was informed 
that you, as magistrates of Cumberland: county, had inter- 
posed to prevent their being broUj^iit to Philadelphia, in obe- 
dience to the Chief Justice's wari/;^t, in the hands of the 
sheriff; and that in particular, Col. Armstrong, had himself, 
discharged the sheriff's guard, after he (the sheriff) had re- 
fused to do it; and committed the prisoners to the county jail, 
which was in a great measure the occasion of the rescue, as 
it gave the persons who committed that bold and daring in- 
sult upon the laws of the Government, time to consult mea- 
sures for the execution of it. The matter was of such con- 
sequence, and the reputation of the Government so much 
concerned in it, that I could not pass it by, without making 
an enquiry into it, and upon hearing you and the sheriff, and 
considering the several proofs, which both you and he have 
laid before me, I find, that on Monday the 2oth day of Jan- 
uary last, the sheriff was ready to set off with the prisoners 
from Carlisle, under a guard of eight or ten men, in order to 
bring them to Philadelphia, as the warrant required — that 
the people of Carlisle, thinking the rights and privileges of 
their county would be infringed, by the prisoners being 
brought to Philadelphia, grew uneasy under these apprehen- 
sions, and did apply to you, and press you to interpose in the 
affair, until they could have an opportunity of remonstrating 
upon the occasion, which was first warmly opposed by Col. 
Armstrong ; but that at length, partly to quiet the minds of 
the people, and partly from an apprehension of danger of a 
rescue, in case the sheriff with the prisoners, should be de- 
tained on the banks of the Susquehanna, which was then 
hourly expected to break up, you were induced to cause the 
prisoners to be examined, and, upon their examination, they 
were committed by Col. Armstrong and Mr. Miller to Car- 
lisle jail ; in order, that the Government, informed by ex- 
press, which was determined to be sent on that occasion, 
should give further orders respecting them. 

" Tho' the transaction has not been proved in the aggra- 
vated light in which it was represented to me, yet, it was un- 
doubtedly officious and beside your duty to interpose at all in 
the affair, as it was unjustifiable in the sheriff to pay any re- 
gard to your interposition, and your conduct, upon the occa- 
sion, was in itself an obstruction of justice, and is not to be 



192 



INTRODUCTION. 



justified ; however, it may in some measure be excused by 
the motives of it. But as I am satisfied from the evidence, 
that both you and the sheriff were far from having any in- 
tention either to favor the prisoners, or to offer the least 
contempt to the authority of the Chief Justice's warrant, 
and that you acted for the best, in a case of perplexity, not 
expecting, but rather intending to prevent the consequences 
which followed. I shall take no other notice of the matter, 
than to admonish you for the future, to be very careful, in 
confining yourselves with the bounds of your jurisdiction, 
and not to interfere again in matters which belong to supe- 
rior authority." — Pro. Rec. vol. T. page 321-2. 



CHAPTER XIV. 

SON OF SENECA GEORGE, SHOT (1769). 

Son of Seneca George shot by one Reed — Proceedings of council — Con. 
ference held at Shamokin, August 1769. 

The last death of an Indian, caused by a white man, to 
be noticed in this connection, is that of an only son of Sene- 
ca George, who was shot by one Reed. This happened 
within the borders of Cumberland at that time. Mr. Reed 
was arrested, and lodged in jail. The governor, to concili- 
ate the relatives of the deceased, proposed a conference to be 
held at Shamokin. The proceedings had there, being so in- 
teresting, are inserted at length, from which all the particu- 
lars touching the death of Seneca George's only son may be 
learned. 

Minutes of a Conference held at Shamokin or Fort Au- 
gusta, by Col. Francis on the part of the government of Pa. 
with Indians in and near Shenago, in order to condole with, 
and make a present to Seneca George and his relatives on 
account of the death of George's only son, who was shot 
sometime since by an unknown person, near the mouth of 
Middle creek, on Susquehanna. 



INTRODUCTION. 198 

Saturday, August 19, 1769, a little before noon, Seneca 
George Gen-gu-ant, and about fifty-three more Indians of 
different tribes, being chiefly Nanticokes and Conoys, landed 
from their boats, and sent a message to Col. Francis to know 
when they might speak to him, who immediately returned an 
answer, that in the afternoon that he would be glad to see 
his brother, Seneca George, and the friends and brethren he 
had brought with him. Col. Francis then proposed to re- 
ceive the Indians, and desired the Rev. Doctor Smith, of 
Phila., who happened to come to the fort about half an hour 
before the Indians, to give his assistance in taking the min- 
utes. 

Aug. II, P. M. 
Present, Col. Francis, Rev. Smith and about 50 inhabitants on and 
near Susquehanna ; Seneca George, Last Night, the Conoy King; Gu- 
en-gu-ant an Onondago, and 22 more warriors and young men. 

Isaac Still, Interpreter. 

Seneca George, speaks : 

Brother : You sent a letter some days since inviting me to this 
place. I invited my brother Gu-en-gu-ant one of the Onondagoes to 
come Mviih me, and likewise some of my children of the Nanticokes 
and Conoys. I also found other young men waiting for me to come 
down ; and now we are all here before you as you was the Governor, 
for you could not expect me to come alone. 

Brother : 

We have met among ourselves this day with many tears, but now 
see you, our tears begin to dry up a little, and we are ready to hear 
what you have to say, and you may appoint the time as soon as you 
please ; and when you speak, all of us will consider one with another 
what you say to us. 

Brother : 

I will speak one word more. I desire you would stop all your 
strong drink awhile, for you and I can neither speak nor smoke to- 
gether rightly, if our young men should get drink at this council fire, 
kindled by the Governor at Shamokin. 

Brother : 

You and I are friends, and know each other, and you likewise 
very well know what the custom is when the Governor meets his bre- 
thren at any place where he appoints a council fire — Now you see your 
brethren here, and we desire you will give us something to eat, for this; 
is always the custom when we meet the Governor at a council fire — 
we have no more to say at this time. 

Col. Francis was going to make some reply, and to express his plea- 
sure at meeting his brethren, and to tell them, that they should hear 

17 



194 INTRODUCTION. 

good things from the Governor, on Monday ; but Seneca George got up 
and desired Col. Francis would not speak then, it being better to con- 
sider what had been said to him till Monday. The Indians then went 
to their camp and provisions were sent them. This evening, Joseph 
Shippen, Esq., Provincial Secretary, arrived at the Fort. 

Sunday, Aug. 20, 1769. 
The Indians having understood that Doctor Smith was to have divine 
service to white people, assembled at the Fort, Seneca George sent no- 
tice that his people worshipped the same God with the English, and 
would attend divine service ; which they did accordingly, with great 
decency, and Isaac Still interpreted the conclusion of the discourse, 
which was particularly addressed to them. 

Monday, Aug. 21, 1769. 
Present, Col. Francis, Joseph Shippen, Dr. Smith, Chas. Stewart, and 
near one hundred inhabitants ; and all the Indians that had attended on 
Saturday. Isaac Still, Interpreter. 

Seneca George speaks. 
Brother, and all you, my Brothers : 

This day we are all met here together ; some chief men, my bro- 
thers, are come with me, and some young men, to this council fire, kin- 
dled by the Governor. You have sent for me to come from Shenango, 
and now I am come to hear my brother, and I suppose you have some- 
thing within your heart to tell me. Gives a String. 

ColonerFrancis spoke then, as follows : 

Brother Seneca George, and all you, my brethren : 

I am glad to see you here, and that you received the letter I sent 
you, soon enough to meet me here, at the very time I wished to see you. 
My grief for what has happened has been equal to yours, but on seeing 
you here, in so friendly and good a disposition, my grief is now so 
much removed that I have been able to light this council fire, and to 
acquaint you with what is contained within the Governor's heart, on 
this occasion. Gives a String. 

Now brethren, open your ears and listen — I am going to deliver to 
you what the Governer desired me to speak to Seneca George, and his 
friends, on this sad occasion — Attend then brethren ; for it is now the 
Governor speaks. 

Brethren : 

I take this opportunity by Col. Francis to give you my kind and 
hearty salutations, and by this string desire you will hearken to the 
message I send you by him, A String of Wampum. 

Brethren : 

It is not above a month ago, that Col. Francis came from Shamo- 
kin, on purpose to acquaint me of the death of one of our Indian bre- 
thren, and that the man who was supposed to have committed the crime 
was apprehended and secured in Lancaster jail. 

On this information, I ordered the man to be sent to the jail of this 
city, to be kept secure, till he can be tried. 



INTRODUCTION. 195 

Brethren : 

Col. Francis further acquaiuts me that, the Indians, who were in 
the cabin with our deceased brother, at the time he was killed, were 
present when the offender was taken, and were satisfied with Colonel 
Francis' conduct in this affair, and were kind enough to lake a mes- 
sage from him, to give you an account of what had been done, and to 
tell you he was hastening to Philadelphia, to lay the same before me, 
and would bring in a month, or six weeks, my message to you, on this 
melancholy occasion, and desired you to be at Shamokin, in order to 
receive it. 

Brethren : 

Knowing that by treaties between this government and the Indians, 
we are obliged to inform each other of any accidents that happen, 
which may be likely to disturb the peace subsisting between us ; as 
soon as I had made myself acquainted with the particulars attending 
this matter, I lost no time in sending account thereof to Sir Wm. John- 
son, that he might relate the real truth, so far as was come to my know- 
ledge, to the Indians of the Six Nations, and assure them, that the per- 
son apprehended should be taken great care of, and safely secured, and 
receive his trial in the same manner as if the deceased had been a 
white man, and by his trial it will appear whether the affair was acci- 
dental or designed. 

Brethren: 

We are sensible that whilst the body of our deceased brother lies 
above ground, your minds cannot be easy. We therefore, by these 
strouds, bury his body, and cover it so deep that your eyes may never 
more see it. 

Brethren : 

With these handkerchiefs we wipe away all the tears which run 
down your cheeks, and take the sorrow from your hearts, and desire 
you would grieve no more. Handkerchiefs. 

Brother: 

With this belt we scrape up all the blood that has lain on the 
ground, or may have stained the bushes. We collect them together, 
bury ihem under ground, that neither your nor your friends eyes may 
more beheld them, as you pass and re-pass the place where the acci- 
dent happened. A Belt. 

Brethren : 

As we have now buried the body of our deceased brother, we de- 
sire you will suffer no uneasiness to remain in your minds, that may 
cause the least ill will towards your brethren of the English. A Bell. 

Brethren: 

As you are the relations of our deceased brother, as a token of 
our affection for you, and to comfort your hearts, we desire you would 
accept of this present of goods. Delivered the Goods. 

Signed John Penn. 

Seneca George speaks. 
Brother: 

Now I have heard what the governor has to say to me on this oc- 



196 INTRODUCTION. 

casion; my young men and the chiefs that are come with me have 
likewise heard it and are very glad that they have heard the Governor 
of Philadelphia speak. Now I will return to my fire place, and to-mor- 
row will give an answer to what the Governor has said to us. 

Tuesday 22nd Aug. — The Indians sent word they could not be ready 
to answer the governor's message till to-morrow in the afternoon. 

Wednesday 23rd Aug. — Having met ; Seneca George spoke as 
follows : 

Brothers : 

We have met here on this good day, and as the Governor of Phi- 
ladelphia has sent you here to speak to me, I shall look upon you as in 
the governor's room. I am glad to hear what my brother the governor 
has said, and so are also my young men, and I doubt not your young 
men are likewise as well pleased as our young men are with what the 
governor has said. 

Brother : 

I let you know. I am not a king, but a captain of the Six Nations. 
But here is a king (pointing to Last Night, the Conoy King) you will 
hear him speak good things. His words and mine are one. 

Brother : 

You may see that the occasion which has called us to meet here, 
IS not from a bad spirit on our part, but on yours. The Great and 
Good Spirit put it into the hearts of our grand-fathers and yours to lay 
strong foundations for peace with each other; we must follow what 
they have done, and if we hide any thing in our hearts from one ano- 
ther, this Great Spirit, whom you call God Almighty, will know it. 

The Conoy King then speaks. 
Brother : 

I am really glad to see you at this fire which the governor has 
placed at Shamokin, and to hear what my brother the governor has 
said ; and to see all these young men that are come with you. My 
young men are likewise all glad on the same account. A string of 
four rows. 

Brother : 

I now speak to the governor, by you, Col. Francis. I have put 
into my heart what the governor has said. My young men have done 
the same. We all believe what the governor has said to Col. Francis 
has really come from his heart. I will, therefore, now open my heart, 
and you shall hear my good things. 2d string of four rows. 

Brother: 

I am well pleased the governor takes this method to bury our grief 
under ground. I need not repeat what you said to us. I am glad you 
have wholly wiped away that stain from the face of the earth, and I 
now assure you, I will look on you, my brothers, as I used to do, and 
think well of you. 

Brother : 

As I told you, we are all glad to hear our brother, the governor. 
But I assure you, brother, I do not know what to do on the affair w« 
are met about, I have considered this sad breach, and should know 



IKTRODUCTION. 197 

what to do in it if any of my people had committed the like against 
any of yours. 

Brother : 

You know best how to manage such of our people as have been 
overcome by the Evil spirit, and therefore I leave this matter wholly to 
you. A belt vf seven rows. 

Brother: 

Let me now speak one word to my brother the governor, and to 
you Col. Francis. I would have my brother, the governor, be strong, 
to hold fast that good friendship, whereof our forefathers laid fast 
foundations when you first came into this country. Sir William John- 
son is but lately come — But we had in old time a very firm peace, and you 
and I used always then to speak to one another. Now, as I said, brother, 
we then laid a firm foundation fur peace, and this was one great arti- 
cle of that peace ; that we should have pity on our young men and also 
on our women and children ; because we all came from one woman, 
as you may easily kn(>w by the mark — " That our Utile children lohenbom 
have all the same shapes and limbs as yours, altho' they be of a different col- 
our." Wherefore, I would have you be strong, and in good earnest to 
preserve this our ancient friendship, so that our young men, whoever 
they meet on a journey or hunting about in the woods, may always be 
glad to see one another. ^ 

Brother : 

There was also another mark in this, our old friendship, that if 
we had one loaf of bread, when we meet each other in the woods, we 
would cut in two, and divide it with one another. Let us all then cast 
our eyes to the great Good Being, to bless our endeavors to preserve 
this, our ancient friendship. A belt of eight rows. 

Brother: 

You know that our Grandfathers made a road between each other, 
which passes by my door and reaches to Onondago. We have now 
kindled a council fire at Shamokin. Let us then be strong, that our 
young men, women and children may pass and repass, and always be 
glad to meet one another as they hunt in the woods. 

L'rother : 

You may perhaps hear bad stories from other nations, but I would 
not have you listen to them, but let you and I still hold fast the an- 
cient friendship. 

Brother : 

You and I are brothers. The Nations to which I belong, the Nan- 
ticokes and Conoys, never yet, since the beginning of the world, pulled 
one scalp, nor even one hair from your heads ; and this, I say, gives 
us a right to call ourselves brothers. Although you have done me 
some hurt, I have never yet cast my eye upon that, but have always 
looked steadfastly to our ancient friendship. 

Brother : 

Now we have healed this sad breach, and you see all my youn^ 
men here, are satisfied it is so made up, and I hope your youno- men 
are also pleased. But, brother, I would have you tell your young men 

17* 



198 



INTRODUCTION. 



never to make the least breach of our friendship again, and I will tell 
our young men the same: A belt of seven rows. 

Brother : 

Now you have heard all your brothers had to say to you on this 
good day. There is, as I told you, a council fire at Shamokin, which 
is the door of the Six Nations. When I go home all your brethren 
shall know, what you have said, and Sir Wm. Johnson shall also 
know it. 

Brother : 

We, the Nanticokes, and Conoys have wiped away all the grief 
from the eyes of our great warrior Seneca George. We show you this 
belt, wherewith we joined you in wiping his eyes. 

Brother : 

Last fall, Sir Wm. Johnson and all the Governors kindled a coun- 
cil fire at Fort Stanwix. They sent for all his Indian brethren, as far 
as Allegheny, to meet at this council fire. It was his business when 
they met to find provision for them, and he did so. But they killed 
one six years old steer for me, and 1 have had no satisfaction for it. — 
If you think proper to consider this matter and allow me satisfaction, 
I shall think well of it. 

Brother : 

To-morrow I intend to leave you. I was in hopes you would send 
me a squaw to me to warm me at night. Perhaps you have one lo 
keep you warm ; but as you did not send me one, 1 must go home lo 
my own as fast as I can. But you know the custom is, that you must 
give me a little bread to eat on the way. 

Col. Francis then spoke as follows; 

Brothers, Seneca George, Last Night, and all you my brethren : 

I am really rejoiced to hear all the good things you have said, and 
to find that the governor's message to you with his small present of 
goods, have wiped away aUlhe tears from your eyes, and confirmed in 
your hearts the old friendship and good will you have your brothers, 
the English. All who are present with me rejoice on ihe same account. 
You see I have caused to be written down on paper all the good things 
you have said, that I may send them directly to the governor, who will 
put them in his heart and remember them the first time you speak 
together. 

Brother : 

As to what you say about a squaw, I have really none here. We 
keep all ours in Philadelphia, and we are as desirous to get home as 
you are. I am sorry that we have so little provisions here ; but you 
shjill, this very evening, have all that I can get for you. I will kill one 
of our best cattle for you. I will send you all the flour I have left to 
make cakes on your wa)', and I will give some powder and shot lo 
your young men to kill a little deer to eat with your cakes as you go 
along. I shall likewise send you a little imlking slick (the Indian phrase 
for rum) and I am sorry I cannot make it long enough for a setting poie,: 



INTRODUCTION^. 199 

but really our rum keys begin to run very low — however, I will make 
the stick as long and strong as I can. Brother Last Night, I will con- 
sider what you say about your steer, and look what there is in my purse 
when I go home to my lodgings from this council fire. 

Col. Francis having finished the above which was received with 
great cheerfulness and many signs of approbation by the Indians. Mr. 
Frederick Weiser desired Col. Francis that he would be pleased to de- 
liver the folowing short speech to Seneca George: 

Brother Seneca George : 

Now the business of the Governor is finished — the son of yonr old 
brother and friend, Conrad Weiser, desires me to speak a few words to 
you. Myself and ail the children of Conrad have had great grief and 
many tears for the unhappy death of your son, and our tears have run 
down our cheeks in greater abundance, because a cousin of ours, the 
sister's son of our father Conrad has been suspected of the mischief. 
He is soon to be tried by the English laws, and if he should be proved 
guilty, which we hope he may not be, we are willing he should sufl^er 
the same punishment as if he had commiiled the crime against a white 
man. 

Brother : 

This matter has grieved and surprised us greatly, for neither the 
man who is said to have done this, nor any of our family, have ever 
had any difference with our Indian brethren, and time will show whe- 
ther this man is guilty or not; and as we do not wish to screen him 
from justice, we desire you will not entertain in your hearts any ill 
will against any of the family or children of our old friend and broth- 
er, Conrad Weiser, on accoynt of this one man, who, if he is guilty, 
must have been carried away by a very evil spirit towards the Indians, 
and different from the spirit of all his family. As a mark of our love 
to you, I, who am the eldest son of your old friend Conrad Weiser, de- 
sire you will accept this small present from his family, to wipe all 
tears from your eyes. 

A present from Mr. Weiser. 

Seneca George having sat after (his speech three or four minutes in 
a deep silence, with his eyes fixed on the ground, and tears visibly 
flowing from them, got up and spoke as follows : 

Brother: 

I have really been pleased with what the governor has spoken by 
you. Col. Francis, for making up this sad affair. Now, as to what ha.-? 
been said by the son of Conrad Weiser, I am glad to see one of his 
sons, and to hear him mention a little of the old friendship and love that 
was betweeu us and our brother, his father. Yes, old Conrad was in- 
deed my brother and friend. He was a counsellor of the Six Nations, 
and knew all that passed between them, or was in their hearts. I am 
very glad the tears have flowed from the eyes of his children, as they 
have done from mine, on account of this unhappy affair, which has 
certainly been a great grief to me: for, he that is lost, was a son that 
lay near to my heart. He was all the child that I had; and now I am 
old, and the loss of him has almost entire y cut away my heart. But I 
am yei pleased my brother Weiser, the son of my old friend, has taken 



200 INTRODUCTION. 

this method to dry my tears. I assure my brother Weiser, this matter 
shall be remembered no more against his family to their hurt, but I will 
look upon it that an evil spirit got into the mind of the person who 
did it. 

All the while Seneca George was delivering the above, he kept ad- 
vancing still nearer and nearer to the table where Col. Francis, Mr. 
Weiser, and the other gentlemen sat, and his action and whole beha- 
vior was surprisingly great. That part especially where he spoke of 
his son, wasjunderstood, even before interpreted, by the tone and man- 
ner in which it was delivered. When he came to the last part, where 
he declared he had no ill will to the family of the Weiser's, he sprang 
forward with a noble air of forgiveness ; and shaking Mr. Weiser by 
the hand, I have, said he, no ill will to you, Mr. Weiser ; nor to you, 
Col. Francis ; nor any to you, father, (meaning Dr. Smith) ; nor any 
to you, (meaning Mr. Stewart); and shaking everyone by the hand, 
then spreading out his arms, and turning quite round to all the com- 
pany ; nor have I any ill will to any of you, my brothers, the English. 

That manly spirit of forgiveness and reconciliation which Seneca 
George showed on this occasion, by his looks and gestures, and whole 
action, made some of them at the table cry out, as he ran up, holding 
out his hand to them, " This is noble ;" for here his speech stood in 
need of no interpreter. 

A conference with the Delawares, inhabiting the Big Island and West 
Branch of Susquehanna. 

During the conference with Seneca George and his friends, Colonel 
Francis had great uneasiness on account of the Delaware chief Neva- 
leeka, and about 42 of his friends, who had come down the West Branch 
on a rumor that there was to be a general treaty at Shamokin, and that 
the governor was to be there. 

The Nanticokes and Conoys refused to admit them into the confer- 
ence, and said they had no business with it, while the others complained 
that they had wailed many days last past of their hunting season, and 
were now starving for hunger. 

Col. Francis s-ent Isaac Still to bring three or four of their chiefs to a 
private conference; who being come, told him that since they could 
not see the governor, nor hear from him, they intended to proceed to 
Ohio. Col. Francis told them the governor was not at Philadelphia, 
but gone on a long journey, but that he would carry any message they 
had to the governor, and that they might not be wholly disappointed, he 
v/ould give them some provisions and a little " Walking Siick," to help 
them back to their hunting-place. 

The Chief then desired Col. Francis to carrv this message, viz : 

That they would return home and hunt awhile a few skins to make 
a pair of breeches for the governor, which they would bring down in 
the fall, to have a talk with him according to an old custom, for they 
now longe-d to see him. and had many things to say. 

It was then found necessary to give them some flour, &c., and to 
get them away as well pleased as possible, for the inhabitants became 
apprehensive that they would kill cattle or do some hurt, for want of 
provisions, and on account of their disappointment in their journey. — 
Prov. Bee U. p. 70-73- 



CHAPTER XV. 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



Preliminary remarks — Erection of counties — Dauphin separated from 
Lancaster county---Original extent and boundary of Lancaster— Er- 
ection of townships within the limits of Dauphin and Lebanon, viz ; 
Peshtank or Paxlon, Lebanon, Derry, &c. Names of taxables 05 
1750, or of early settlers — Miscellaneous — Hanover township erect- 
ed ; early settlers in. 

As early as 1682, three counties were organized in the 
Province of Pennsylvania, viz : Philadelphia, Bucks and 
Chester. In 1723, Lancaster county was erected ; and it 
then comprised all the territory west and north of Chester 
county, between the Schuylkill, north of the boundary line 
of Chester and the Susquehanna, and all west of the Sus- 
quehanna. Lancaster county was gradually reduced ; first 
by the separation of York county, in August, 1749; (Cum- 
berland in 1750, Berks in 1752, Northumberland, which was 
erected out of parts_of Lancaster, Cumberland, Berks, Bed- 
ford and North^rabiib*Iand, in 1772 : and by the organization 
of Dauphin county, which was separated from Lancaster, by 
the acts of March 4th 1785, and by erecting Lebanon in 
1813, formed out ot parts of Lancaster and Dauphin. 

The extent and boundary of Lancaster, at the time of its 
organization is given, in the following extract from the Pro- 
vincial Records. 

" At a council held at Philadelphia, May 2d, 1729 : pre- 
sent, the Honorable Patrick Gordon, Esq., Lieut. Governor, 
Richard Hill, William Fishbourn, Clement Plumsted, Thos. 
Lawrence, and Samuel Hazel, Esqrs. 

A return being made by the order of Council, dated the 



202 HISTORY OT DAUtHIN COUNTY. 

20th February last, for running a division line in the county 
of Chester, and settling the boundaries of the county to be 
erected in the back parts of this province towards Susque- 
hanna, pursuant to the minutes of council of the 20th of said 
February, the same was read, approved and confirmed, and 
is in these words : 

Pursuant to a warrant from the Hon. Patrick Gordon, Esq. 
Governor of the Province of Pennsylvania, and counties of 
New Castle, Kent, and Sussex, upon Delaware, bearing date 
the 22d day of February last past (1729) — We, whose 
names are hereunto subscribed, met together, on the 17th 
day of March, 1728-29, near the head of the northern 
branch of Octoraro creek, and with the assistance of John 
Taylor, surveyor of the county of Chester, run a line from 
the said branch to the river Schuylkill, according to the 
courses following, viz : Beginning on a corner, marked white 
oak standing on the eastern side of the said branch, on the 
land of John Minshall, thence northeast by north, five hun- 
dred and eighty perches to a chestnut oak, standing on the 
top of a barren mountain, at the head of the branches of the 
said Octoraro creek, thence along the said mountain, north- 
east by east, three hundred and forty perches to a chestnut 
tree ; thence north, northeast, four hundred and forty per- 
ches to a white oak by a branch of Pequea creek, thence 
continuii'g the same course along the said mountain four 
hundred and eighty perches to a chestnut oak, thence north 
by east seven hundred perches to a white oak tree near a 
small branch of Erandywine creek, thence north by west six 
hundred and sixteen perches to a chestnut tree standing on the 
top of a mountain at the head of the w^estern branch of said 
Brandywine creek, thence east northeast along the said 
mountain two thousand two hundred and twenty perches to 
a chestnut tree near the western branch of the French creek, 
thence northeast by east three hundred and fifty perches to 
a red oak, thence northeast one hundred and ninety perches 
to a chestnut oak, near another branch of the said French 
creek, thence northeast by north two thousand one hundred 
perches to a corner marked white oak, standing by the said 
river Schuylkill, about three quarters of a mile below the 
house of John Burroughs. — Signed 

Henry Hayes, Samuel Hollingsworth, Philip Taylor, Eli- 
sha Gatchel, James James, John Wright, Tobias Hendricks, 



HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 203 

Samuel Blunston, Andrew Cornish, Thomas Edwards, John 
Musgrove. 

And the upper parts of the province described as afore- 
said, are hereby declared to be erected, and are accordingly 
erected into a county by the name of Lancaster county." 

When Lancaster county was laid off from Chester, John 
Wright, who had settled on the present site of Colum- 
bia, some time in 1726, named it Lancaster, after the county 
Lancashire, England, where he came from in 1714. John 
Wright had first settled on his arrival in the Province, in the 
lower part of Chester county. — His. Lan. co. 240. 

Soon after Lancaster had been organised, the magistrates, 
viz : John Wright, Tobias Hendricks, Samuel Blunston, An- 
drew Hornish, Thomas Edwards, Caleb Pierce, Thomas 
Reid and Samuel Jones, Esq., inhabitants of the county, 
met, to settle and agree upon the names and boundaries of 
townships. This meeting was held June 9th, and the Court 
confirmed the names and boundaries, at the August term of 
1729. The names of the townships then organized, are 
Drumore, Sadsbury, Martock, Conestoga, Hempfield, Earl, 
Warwick, Manheim, Lancaster, Leacock, Lampeter, Salis- 
bury, Derry, Peshtank, and Lebanon. 

The boundaries of the three last were as follows : Derry, 
the township of Derry, beginning at the mouth of Cone- 
wago, thence up Susquehanna to the mouth of Suataaro, 
thence up Suataaro to the mouth of Quetopohello, thence 
south on a direct line to Conewago, and down the same to 
the place of beginning. 

Peshtank — The township of Peshtank, beginning at the 
mouth of Suataaro, thence up the river to Kehtohtoning 
hill above Peter Allen's, thence eastward by the south side 
of said hill to the meridian of Quetopohello mouth, thence 
on a south course to the mouth of the same at Suataaro, and 
down Suataaro to the place of beginning. 

Lebanon — Lebanon township, beginning under the afore- 
said hill, at the northeast corner of Peshtank, thence by the 
said hill easterly to the meridian of the west line of Tolpe- 
hockan manor, thence southerly and by the said line to the 
hills bounding Warwick township, thence by the said hills 
and township westerly to the corner of Derry and Conewa- 
go, thence northerly by Derry and Peshtank to the place of 
beginning. 



204 HISTORY Of dauphin county. 

Derry township was divided prior to 1750 into the "West 
End of Derry," and the " East End of Derry." The names 
of taxables and early settlers in the East End in 1750, are 
the following, viz : 

James Semple, James McKee, Joseph Candor, Thomas 
Hall, James Clark, Randel Boo, John Allison, James Shaw, 
Robert Ramsey, James Russel, Thomas Boman, James 
Chambers, Hugh Carrithers, James Carrithers, Robert Brat- 
chey, Hugh Black, Thomas Black, David Black, Robert 
Chambers, James Long, David Campbel, James Ireland, Pat- 
rick Down, John Vanlier, Robert Carrithers, William Bradin, 
Charles Neely, Arthur Chambers, John Tice, John Laird, 
David Caldwell, Andrew Morrison, John Thomson, Alex. 
Robeson, John Nicom, John Kerr, William Blackburn, An- 
drew Lockert, David McNair, James Wiley, Christian Sad- 
dler, William Mitchel, Moses Wilson, Michael Howry, Mo- 
ses Patterson, James Russel, Wilham Sterret, Robert Arm- 
strong, John Welsh. 

The taxable and early settlers of the "East End of Der- 
ry," at the same period, were James Galbreath, Esq., James 
Wilson, James Campbell, James Walker, John Walker, H. 
Walker, John McCord, David McCord, William Robeson, 
Archibald Walker, David Tyler, John Orr, John Rinagel, 
William Wilson, James Miller, VVilliam Boyd, Robert Boyd, 
John Cosh, William Sayers, George Eby, David Mitchel, 
Leonard Denie, John McColloch, Charles Conway, David 
Shenk, David Kleim, Michael Hover, Honnes Palmer, Henry 
Peters, Hans Ketrin, Charles Clark, Thomas Mackey, An- 
drew Moore, James Foster, Robert McClure, Hugh Hall, 
Thomas Rutherford, William Rea, John McQueen, John Rea, 
Neal McCallester, Christian Schneider, Neal Daugherty, 
Thomas Logan, George Miller, John McCallester, Joseph 
White, John McClelland, Robert Mordeck, Moses Potts, Da- 
vid Jonson, Jacob Reif, Jacob Longnecker, Andrew Rowan, 
Hugh Hayes, Patrick Hayes, John Kerr, Duncan McDon- 
nell, Thomas Wilson, James Wilson, John Campbel, Mr. 
McClan, Mr. Sloan, John Mabcn, Patrick Kelly, James Dun- 
can, William Hays, John Foster, Robert Foster, David Fos- 
ter, Wilson Cooper, John Strean, John Cochran, Hans Adam 
Nei, Jacob Sailer, Hugh Miller, John Godfrey, Thomas Ai- 
ken, Anthony Hempel, Conrad Wisan, John McColloch, John 
Gingericli, William Miller, John Moor, John Hays, William 



HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 205 

Huston. Peshtank, was divided into the " West Side of 

Paxton," the " South End of Paxton," and the « Narrows 
ot Paxton." The taxables and early settlers of the West Side, 
in 1750, were the following: 

William Thorn, Hugh Montgomery, Robert Dugan, Tho- 
mas Sturgen, John Johnson, John Harris, James McNight, 
James Reed, James Armstrong, Robert Chambers, John Da- 
vis, James Harris, David Carson, William McCalley, James 
loland, Andrew Steen, John Cochran, Alexander Jonson, 
Ihomas Foster, Esq. James Aiken, James Allcorn, Thomas 
Simson, James Polke, James Potts, George Gillesny, Alex- 
ander McCay, John Cavit, Andrew Caldwell, John Scott, 
Samuel Price, Patrick Gillespy, Jeremiah Sturgeon, Robert 
Montgomery, John Caldwell, Robert Smith, Jos- White, John 
Neal, John Dougherty, George Gabriel, John Carson, Sam- 
uel Hunter, John Daily, Samuel Simpson, Samuel Marthi, 
Ihomas McArther, James Colier, Thomas Larnar, Andrew 
Stuart, Samuel Campbell, Alexander Sanders, Robert Curry, 
Moses Warn, Jos. Ross, John Smith, James Thorn, William 
Armstrong, William Calhoun, Thomas McCormick, John 
VV iggins, John Wiley, Andrew Cochran, Robert Potter, Wil- 
liam Thorn. 

„xT,!^^ *^^^^b^e« and early settlers of the South End, were 
William Kirkpatnck, Thomas King, Thomas Meays, Wil- 
liam Steel, Robert Tyler, Hugh Stuart, Peter Fleming, John 
Shields, Kennedy Kanix, John Gray, William Harris, Rich- 
ard McClure, John Wilson, Oliver Wiley, Samuel Galbreath, 
Martin Shults, David Shields, Moses Dickey, H. McKinney, 
H. Seller, Valentine Starn, Thomas Dugan, Alexander Brown, 
James Lusk, John Means, Andrew Hanna, George Shiets, 
Timothy McNight, William Sharp, H. McElroy, John John- 
ston, Charles Gonlon, John Montgomery, Timothy Shaw, 
Matthew Gordon, Andrew Huston, Samuel Woods, John 
Welsh, Alexander White, John Morrow, James McNight, 
Francis Jonson, James Wilson, William Dickey, Patrick 
Kinney. 

Taxable and early settlers of the Narrows were John Kelton, 
Mr. Murray,Robert Armstrong, John Armstrong, Thomas Gas- 
ten, William Foster, Thomas Clark, John McKenne, Robert 
Clark, Thomas Adams, Halbert Adams, John Watt, George 
Clark, James Reed, James English, John Geven, James Bas- 

18 



206 HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 

kins, Thomas McKee, Charles Williams, John Mitchell, John 
Lee, a trader. 

At the August Court, 1729, at Lancaster, James Pattison, 
Edmond Cartlidge, Peter Chartier, John Lawrence, Jonas 
Davenport, Oliver Walhs, Patrick Boyd, Lazarus Lowry, 
William Dunlap, William Beswick, John Wilkins, Thomas 
Perrin, and John Harris, prayed to be recommended to the 
Governor to trade with the Indians. Their prayer was grant- 
ed, and they recommended. 

March 5, 1730 — ordered that Thomas Gardener, consta- 
ble of Pashtank, be allowed 18 pence. Taxes assessed in 
Paxton township for 1736, amounted to £22, 10, 7. For 
1737, £21, 2, 10. Samuel Montgomery was collector this 
year. For the year 1738, £27, 0, 6. For 1739, £13, 5, 
9— WilUam McMullin, Collector. For 1740, £9, 13, 8— 
John Willson, collector. 

October 30, 1739, the county commissioners agreed to 
hold an appeal, January 4th, 1739-40, at Thomas Lenix's, 
in Paxton, for the upper end of Lancaster. 

January 8, 1744, the commissioners held an appeal at the 
house of John Harris, in the township of Paxton. 

December 30, 1747, the commissioners again held an ap- 
peal at the house of John Harris. — Com. Book of Lancaster 
CO. in Secretary's Office, Harrisburg. 

At the February session, 1736-7, upon a petition of the 
inhabitants of Lancaster county, Hanover township was er- 
ected — divided on the west from Paxton to Beaver creek, 
from its mouth to the mountain, from Lebanon on the east, 
and Derry on the south by Suataaro creek, from Beaver 
mouth to the forks, thence by the north branch thereof to the 
mountain. Prior to 1750, Hanover township was divided 
into the " West End of Hanover" and the " East End of 
Hanover." The taxables and early settlers in 1750 ot the 
West End, were the following — 

Joseph Rogers, Seth Rogers, Hugh Rogers, Samuel Ster- 
ret, Jas. McKoit, James Beard, Robert Porterfield, Mathew 
Thornton, William Rogers, William Thomson, Samuel Todd, 
George Jonson, John Brown, John McCavit, James McCav- 
it, Thomas French, James French, James Finney, Thomas 
Sharp, John Sharp, John Dobbins, Mr. McCowen, John Hill, 
Philip Robeson, James Brown, WilUam Erwen, Samuel Bar- 
net, Alexander Montgomery, Thomas Bell, Samuel Robeson, 



HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 207 

James Riddle, Thomas McQuire, John McCord, Robert 
Houston, John Gamble, John Henry, Thomas McClure, Wil- 
liam Barnet, Andrew Wallace, Richard Jonston, Josias Wi- 
ley, John Snodey, John Cooper, Thomas Cooper, Francis 
McClure, Michael Neal, H. Hart, Robert Humes, James 
Robinson, James Rippert, Mathew Snodey, John McCormick, 
James VMIson, John Strean, Robert Park, Hugh Wilson, 
Jas. Wilson, Robert Wallace, Robert Snodgrass, Wm. Mc- 
Clenahan, David McClenahan, sen., Danl. Shaw, Samuel 
Stuart, Robert Love, William Laird, John Hutchinson, Sam- 
uel Young, James Finney, John McNealey, James McCon- 
nel, Thomas Russel, Charles McClure, John Woods, Andrew 
Woods, Matthew Tyler, Andrew Walker, Robert Martin, 
James Wilson, George Miller, John Miller, John McClure, 
Patrick Gracy, William Cooper, Thomas Martin, John Stu- 
art, Thomas Robeson, James Wallace, Michael Wallace. 

The taxables and early settlers of the East End of Hano- 
ver, at the same period, w^ere the following, though many of 
them would now fall within the limits of Lebanon county : 

Jacob Musser, Peter Hettrich, Melchior Henry, Thomas 
Proner, Henry Bachman, Conrad Clatt, Anthony Rosebaura, 
Jacob Mosher, Esau Ricker, William Clark, John Sibbins, 
John Schwar, James Young, John Gilleland, Peter Hailraan, 
Widow Work, Frederick Hoak, Jas. Sloan, Widow Gille- 
land, Jacob Sops, John Sops, Rudolph Hake, Joseph Hoof, 
Benj. Clark, Killion Mark, George Tittel, Isaac Williams, 
Adam Clannean, John Casnet, James Williams, Anthony Tit- 
tel, Dennis Keril, Mathias Boor, John Sloan, Daniel Ankel. 
William Young, Abraham Williams, James Clark, Martin 
Lichty, Adam Roth, Ludwig Shits, John Stewart, John Fos- 
ter, John Andrew, Walter McFarland, Joseph Brechtbiil, 
WilUam Robison, Philip Kolps, Onwal Jagel, Thomas Croil, 
Alexander Swan, Alexander Thomson, John Graham, Samu- 
el Ainsworth, John Martin, Barnet M'Night, Widow Brown, 
John Humes, Andrew M'Keehan, Thomas Brewster, John 
Thomson, James Graham, John Cunningham, William Cun- 
ningham, Christopher Sies, John Meyers, Patrick Brown. 
John Andrews, John Strein, Antony M'Crath, George Shet- 
ley, Walter Bell, Leonard Long, Adam M'Neely, John M'- 
Clure, John Henderson, William Woods, John Porterfield, 
Robert Haslet, John Crawford, William Watson, Henry 
Gantz, James Greenleaf, John Craig, Hugh M'Gowen, Johii 



208 HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 

Dickson, Joseph Willson, Adam Miller, Edward M'Murray 
Jacob M'Cormick, John Rarasej, James Stewart, Humphrey 
Cunningham, Robert Kirtwood, James M'Coorey, William 
Thomson, Thomas Strain, Mathias Plank, Jacob Steiner, 
William Stoner, James Todd, John Young, James Dixon, 
Robert Bryson, William Bryson, Daniel Andrew^, David Ste- 
venson, William Cathcart, William Crosby, Benjamin Ains- 
worth, Patrick Bowen, Adam Harper, Lazarus Stewart. 

In noticing the remarkable incidents and leading events 
that transpired before the erection of Dauphin county in 1785, 
the writer does not confine himself to the present limits of the 
county, but embraces those that happened within the limits 
of Lancaster, north of the present southern boundary of Dau- 
phin county. The same course will be pursued in the history 
of Cumberland and the other counties. 



CHAPTER XVL 

Dauphin County established, &c. 

Dauphin county erected and named — Boundary in 1785 — Reduction of, 
in 1813 — Present boundary — Variety of geological features — Geology 
of — Acres of land in — Productions — Live stock — Cereal grains, &c., 
&c, — General statistics — Synopsis of the census of 1840 — Descrip- 
tion of streams — Public improvements, &c. 

Dauphin county, named in honor of the son of Louis xvi., 
King of France was separated as stated above, from Lancas- 
ter, by an act of March 4, 1785, and then bounded as fol- 
lows : " Beginning on the west side of the Susquehanna river 
opposite the mouth of Conewago creek; thence up the middle 
of the said creek to Moor's mill ; and from thence to the head 
of said creek ; and from thence by a direct line to the south- 
east corner of Heidelberg township, where it strikes the 
Berks county line ; thence northw^est by the line of Berks 
county to Mahantayo creek ; thence along the same by the 
line of Northumberland county, and crossing the river Sus(jue» 



HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUMY. 209 

hanna, to the line of Cumberland county, and that part of the 
line of York county to the place of beginning, on the west 
side of the river Susquehannah." 

Dauphin was afterwards reduced, by an act of Feb. 16 
1813, erecting Lebanon county out of parts of Dauphin and 
Lancaster. Dauphin is now bounded, north by Northumber- 
land, northeast by Schuylkill, east by Lebanon, and sooth 
hy Lebanon and Lancaster, and on the west by the Susque- 
hanna, separating it from the counties of York, Cumberland 
and Perry; the whole stream, however, being within the 
county, the course of the river through it, which is iortv- 
eight miles. The length of the county is thirty-three miles, 
and mean width sixteen miles; it contains an area of five 
hundred and twenty-eight miles ; containing 341,120 acres 

Population in 1810, 31,883; 1820, Lebanon having been 
separated 21,663 ; 1830, 25,303 ; 1840, 30,118- AjreZl 
amount of property taxable in 1844, was $8,197,491 00 

This county presents a great variety of geological features 
as well as a variety of soils, viz : limestone, yeJJow and red 
shale, gravel sandy, &c. The limestone region, in the south- 
ern and southeastern part of the county, has a rich, loamv 
soil, highly productive, where well cultivated. The slate 
formation between this and the Blue mountain, is more hilly 
and less fertile ; but by proper improvement and the free u."^ 
of lime as a manure, may be made a fine agricultural reaion 
Much of It has been reclaimed. " Formerly, and not more 
than twenty years ago. Lower Paxton and the Hanovers 
could boast of as poor land, as carelessly cultivated, as any 
tract of the same extent on the face of the earth. 'The vovth 
all emigrate, and the poor all starve,' was the remark com- 
monly made use of, when describing this now smiling region " 
As said, the geological features of this connty are various- 
lor in It, says Trego, we find nearlv, if not quite all the rock 
lormations, from the white sandstone which overlies the nri 
raary rocks, upwards to the coal. ^ 

The Conestoga hills, in the southern part of the county 
are composed of trap rock: north of these we find the mid 
iUe secondary shale and sandstone, extending as far as High 
spire, on the Susquehanna, six miles below Harrisbura, where 
It overlaps the great limestone formation of Cumberla^nd Val- 
iey. ihe limestone formation is a broad belt of limestone 
winch may be traced from the Delaware river, at and above 



210 HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 

Easton, through Northampton, Lehigh, Berks, Lebanon, 
Dauphin, Cumberland and Franklin counties, and so passing 
southwestward through Maryland and Virginia. The lime- 
stone formation is seen in some other counties of this state. 
The limestone in this county ranges from Lebanon across 
Dauphin to the Susquehanna ; its northern limit on the river 
being at the lower end of Harrisburg, and the line of junc- 
tion between the hmestone and slate passing thence eastward 
to the Swatara creek, north of Hummelstown, and so on to 
the Lebanon cou^y line near Palmyra. Some belts of slate 
are contained within the range of this limestone, one of which 
may be observed passing from the Swatara west of Hummels- 
town, south of the poor house, and extending nearly to the 
Susquehanna. 

North of the limestone is a broad slate formation, having 
a hilly and rolling surface, which occupies the region between 
the northern limit of the limestone, and the southern base of 
the Kittatinny* or Blue mountain. Some thin strata of lime- 
stone are found in certain parts of this slate range. This 
range extends all along the Blue mountain from the Delaware 
river through Northampton, Lehigh, Berks, Lebanon, Dau- 
phin, Cumberland and Franklin counties, to the southern line 
of the state. 

The rocks of the Blue mountain consist chiefly of the hard, 
compact, white, gray and reddish sandstone, which lies next 
in order above the last mentioned slate, and which forms so 
many of the mountain ridges in middle Pennsylvania. This 
rock constitutes that long, narrow, nearly level and continu- 
ous ridge which stretches from near the Hudson river, not far 
from Kingston, across New York and New Jersey, and which 
entering Pennsylvania at the Delaware water gap, is known 
from that place to its termination in Franklin county, by the 
name of Kittatinny or Blue mountain. 

On the northern slope of this mountain, and in the valley 
between it and the second mountain, are the red variegated 
shales, resting on the sandstones just described, with the over- 
lying limestone, of an argillaceous blue; the fossiliferous sand- 
stone, of various thickness ; the olive slate, occupying but a 
small space, because the strata are nearly perpendicular ; and 
along the south side of the Second mountain, the red and 

• Kittatinny, originally called by the Indians, Kau-ta-tin'Clmnk, i. e. 
the Main, or Principal Mountain. 



HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 211 

gray sandstones, and red shale next in position. The olive 
slate and red shale rocks appear in Armstrong's valley, around 
Halifax. 

In order to account for the small space occupied by so 
many formations, some of which in other parts of the state 
occupy of themselves a wide extent of country, it must be 
recollected, that the strata here are vertical, or in truth thrown 
rather beyond a vertical position, so that their order of super- 
position is inverted, and the strata w^iich really lie upper- 
most in place appear to dip steeply beneath those which are 
actually below them. Rock Strata which are vertical can 
only occupy an area equal to their thickness, while those 
which approach the horizontal position, usually spread over 
a wide region. 

The Second mountain is mainly composed of a coarse, 
hard, grayish sandstone, which is also found in Peters', Ber- 
ry's and Mahantany's mountains; all these being in fact but 
the same ridge which winds round recrosses the several twins. 
The rock next in order is the bright red shale, which under- 
lies the coarse pebbly conglomerate next below the coal bear- 
ing strata. This red shale is found encompassing all the an- 
thracite coal fields, and from its softness and liability to de- 
composition, has been worn down so as usually to form valleys 
around the high, sharp ridges, which bound the coal basins. 
Accordingly it is found extending down Stoney creek valley, 
between the Second and Third mountains, and folding round 
on the Susquehanna above the town of Dauphin, again fol- 
lowing up the valley of Clark's creek, thus enclosing the coal 
field of the Third and Fourth mountains. Pas«.ing round the 
junction of Peters' and Berry's mountains on the east, it en- 
ters Williams' valley and stretches down Wisconisco creek 
again to the Susquehanna at Millersburg. The whole of Ly- 
kens' valley, which lies between Berry's and Mahantany's 
mountains, is of this red shale, the northern division of which 
extends up the valley of Pine creek into Schuylkill county, 
enclosing between it and the Williams' valley division, the 
Bear valley coal basin. 

The Third and Fourth mountains are composed of the 
coarse conglomerates and sandstones, w^hich immediately un- 
derlie the coal, and it is in the high narrow depression be- 
tween those ridges that the coal of the Stoney creek coal re- 
gion is found. Owing, however, to the displacement conse- 



212 HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 

quent upon the highly upheaved position of the rocks below 
it, and to the crushing effect near the junction of the uniting 
ridges, the coal beds towards the western extremity of this 
basin, are confused and uncertain. Further eastward the 
prospect is better, and excellent coal has been obtained, soft 
of which is so soft and free burning as to approach the bitu- 
minous character. .j 

The Big Lick and Bear mountains, in the northeastern part 
of the county, are also cemented pebble or conglomerate 
rock, and in like manner enclose a coal basin, the western end 
of which extends into this county. It is commonly known by 
the name of Bear valley coal region, the western point of 
which is at the junction of the two last named mountains, 
about twelve miles east of the Susquehanna. Most of the coal 
obtained from this valley has been mined at Bear's gap, an 
opening in the Big Lick mountain through which Bear creek 
flows southward towards Wisconisco creek. The mountains 
which bound the coal basin on the north and south are here 
about seven hundred and fifty feet in height above the level 
of Bear creek, and contain numerous coal strata Mhich de- 
scend towards the centre of the narrow valley at an angle of 
about forty-five degrees. The gap made by the passage of 
Bear creek through the mountain, has exposed the coal on 
both sides of the stream, and affords great facilities for min- 
ing it advantageously. One of the beds opened is eleven feet 
thick, two of seven feet, and others of less size. Several coal 
seams are known to exist here which have not yet been fully 
explored ; one has been ascertained to be twenty-four feet 
thick. Shafts have been sunk on the slope of the mountain, 
north of the valley, and beds of 24, 12, 10, 8, and 7 feet of 
coal have been found there. 

The mining operations at Bear gap are carried on by a 
company, and a railroad sixteen miles in length, has been 
constructed from the mines to Millersburg on the Susquehan- 
na. Here the coals are ferried across the river to the Penn- 
sylvania canal on the west side, and the coal discharged into 
canal boats, being chiefly transported to Baltimore by way 
of the Pennsylvania and Tide water canals. The completion 
of the Wisconisco canal, (now in progress, 3844,) on the east 
side of the river, from Millersburg to the head of the Eastern 
division of the Pennsylvania canal, at Clark's feiry on Dun- 
can's island, will greatly facilitate the coal trade from this 



HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 213 

region, offering a more convenient means of transportation, 
and one by which the troublesome necessity of ferrying the 
loaded cars across the Susquehanna may be avoided. — Trego, 
This county contains about three hundred and foi'ty thou- 
sand acres of land ; whereof, according to the best data, se- 
venty thousand are limestone; the other portion shale and 
gravel, excepting the flats along the Susquehanna which are 
generally sandy, and the mountainous and rocky portions, the 
latter of which are scarce fit for cultivation. The flats or 
river bottomsof Londonderry, upper and lower Swatara, Sus- 
quehanna and Middle Paxton, are very rich, and highly pro- 
ductive, amply repaying the husband for his care bestowed 
upon them in a judicious course of culture. Many of these 
bottoms are preferred to limestone soil, yielding with more 
certainty, if not more abundantly. This county produces an- 
nually three hundred thousand bushels of wheatj four hun- 
dred thousand bushels of oats, two hundred thousand bushels 
of rye, three hundred thousand bushels of corn, one hundred 
thirty thousand bushels of potatoes, from twenty to twenty-five 
thousand tons of hay, twenty-five thousand bushels of buck- 
wheat. By a proper course of culture and the liberal appli- 
cation of vegetable, animal and mineral manures, the county 
may soon yield double the quantity it does at present. 

According to the census of 1840, there were in this county 
three furnaces, which produced three thousand tons of cast 
iron ; three forges and rolling mills, and produced four hun- 
dred and sixty-six tons of bar iron; the furnaces and forges 
consumed five thousand, five hundred and thirty-seven tons of 
fuel ; employed two hundred and twenty-four men, including 
mining operatives ; capital invested, $120,000. The furnaces 
and rolling mills have since increased. 

There were mined or dug, eight thousand tons of anthra- 
cite coal ; in which thirty men were employed ; capital in- 
vested, $150,0('0. 

Live Stock : five thousand eight hundred and fifty-two 
horses and mules, seventeen thousand four hundred and twen- 
ty-nine neat cattle, fifteen thousand seven hundred and four- 
teen sheep, twenty-seven thousand eight hundred and seven- 
teen swine, poultry of all kinds estimated at $13,784. 

Cereal Grains : Two hundred and seventy-seven thousnnd 
two hundred and forty-eight bushels of wheat, one thousand 
nine hundred and eighty bushels of barley, three hundred and 



214 HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 

ninety-eight thousand five hundred and forty-four bushels of 
oats, two hundred and two thousand seven hundred and sev- 
enty-one bushels of rye, twenty-four thousand and thirty-nine 
bushels of buckwheat, three hundred and seven thousand 
three hundred and sixty-three bushels of corn. 

Various Products: Twenty- four thousand and twenty-one 
pounds of wool, six hundred and four pounds of hops, one 
thousand pounds of beeswax, one hundred twenty-five thou- 
sand and fifty-one bushels of potatoes, eighteen thousand and 
eight tons of hay, three tons and one-fourth of hemp and flax, 
gathered forty-six thousand seven hundred and thirty pounds 
of tobacco, three hundred and twenty-two pounds of silk co- 
coons, sold nine thousand and twenty-four cords of wood. 

The value of the product of the dairy $54,208, value of 
the products of the orchard $18,959, one hundred and sev- 
enty-two gallons of wine were made, the value of home made 
or family goods $13,330. 

Value of manufactured tobacco $5,000 ; eight persons em- 
ployed, capital invested $3,250. Value of hats, caps and 
bonnets manufactured $118,50; nineteen persons employed, 
capital invested $7,350. 

Twenty tanneries, which tanned fourteen thousand nine 
hundred and thirty-five sides of sole leather, six thousand and 
forty-four sides of upper, employed fifty-eight hands, capital 
invested $82,200. All other manufactories of leather, sad- 
dleries, &c., twenty-six; value of manufactured articles $58,- 
800 ; capital invested $28,610. Twenty thousand pounds 
of soap, sixty thousand pounds of candles, capital invested 
$4,500. Seventeen distilleries, which produced one hundred 
and forty-seven thousand gallons ; four breweries, which pro- 
duced four hundred sixty-six thousand nine hundred and 
twenty gallons. Four potteries ; value of manufactured arti- 
cles $2,300, five men employed, capital invested $850. 

Value of produce of market gardens $4,850 ; value of nur- 
series of florists $800 ; twenty-six men employed, capital 
invested $2,000. Three commission houses, capital $23,500. 
Retail dry goods, grocery and other stores, one hundred thir- 
ty-three ; capital invested $479,110. Ten lumber yards ; 
capital invested $59,000 ; forty-seven men employed. Twen- 
ty-six butchers ; capital invested $19,400. Value of lumber 
produced $1,228. Fifty barrels of tar manufactured, one 
man employed. Value of machinery manufactured $2,000, 



HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 2l5 

three men employed . Forty-seven small arms made. — 
Value of bricks and lime manufactured $21,219 ; ninety-one 
men employed. 

Nine fulling mills ; six woollen manufactories ; value of 
manufactured goods S6,215, thirty-one persons employed, 
capital invested $4,056. One paper manufactory, twelve 
printing offices, six binderies, eleven weekly newspapers, one 
hundred and thirteen men employed, capital invested $73,500; 
two rope walks, value of produce $7,000, eleven men em- 
ployed, capital invested $2,800. 

Carriages and wagons manufactured $13,185, fifty-one 
men employed, capital $5,040. Twenty-nine floufing mills, 
which manufactured fifteen thousand four hundred and thirty- 
one barrels of flour ; thirty- five grist mills, seventy-six saw 
mills, two oil mills. Value of furniture manufactured $14,- 
750, forty-four men employed, capital invested $6,040. Six- 
teen brick and stone houses built, thirty-seven wooden houses 
built, employed one hundred and ninety-three hands, value of 
constructing or building $72,790. Value of all manufactured 
articles not enumerated $5,120, capital invested $39,025. 
Total capital invested in manufactures $357,315. 

The following tables exhibit a synopsis of the census of 
1830 and 1840, of each township; population, of different 
ages, males, females, &c — Furnaces, forges, rolling mills, 
mills of various descriptions, tanneries ; various kinds of pro- 
ducts, &c., &c. 






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218 HISTORY OF DADPHIN COUNTY. 



STREAMS OF THE COUNTY. 

Dauphin County possesses abundance of water power. — 
The streams of this county are numerous. The recipient of 
them all is the Susquehanna, which the Indians called the 
Sa-os-qua-ha-na-unk, i. e. Long-crooked-river, according to 
Heckeweleder ; and is emphatically " the river of Pennsyl- 
vania," rises both in New York and Pennsylvania. The 
north eastern or greatest branch rises in the northern ridge 
of the Catsbergs, from the Ostego lake. The west branch 
rises in Cambria county. These two branches unite at Nor- 
thumberland, and form a stream of 4,285 feet, the breadth of 
which, at Harrisburg, is 2,876 feet. It flows in^a southern 
direction into the Chesapeake bay. It forms the entire west- 
ern boundary of Dauphin county, flowing along it for a dis- 
tance of about forty-eight miles. In its course along this 
county it embraces a number of islands, the principal of which 
are Duncan's, Haldeman's, Cox's, Foster's, Hill's, Eliot's, 
Shelly's, and other islands. There are several bridges across 
it within the limits of this county ; one at Duncan's island and 
one at Harrisburg. There were two here, but on the 4th of 
December, 1844, the Cumberland Valley Railroad bridge was 
destroyed by fire — it is now rebuilding. The Susquehanna 
is one of the most important streams in Pennsylvania. 

The scenery along this majestic river is grand— unsurpas- 
sed by any in the State, if not in the Union. 

The other prominent streams are numerous, and with their 
several tributaries, afford much water power, of every de- 
scription, to the county. These are noticed below. 

The Susquehanna, as it washes the western portion of Dau- 
phin, receives from the county the following considerable 
creeks, with their numerous tributaries, viz : Mahantango 
creek, Wisconisco creek, Armstrong creek, Powel's creek, 
Clark's creek, Swatara creek, and ('onewago creek, besides 
some twenty smaller streams that empty into it. Some of the 
larger creeks receive scores of smaller streams in their course 
through the county. 

Tke Mahantango creek rises in Schuylkill county, and flows 
west southwest, twenty-five miles into the Susquehanna river, 
about thirty above Harrisburg ; and for twelve or thirteen 



HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 219 

miles above its mouth, it forms the dividing line between Dau- 
phin and Northumberland counties, and in its course along 
the county receives a number of smaller streams; the largest 
of which, is that passing through Hain's gap of the Mahan- 
tango mountain. Mahantango affords considerable water 
water power for mills. 

The Wisconisco creek rises in Schuylkill county and flows 
westward through Williams' and Wisconisco valleys, about 
sixteen miles, and empties into the Susquehanna river at Mil- 
lersburg; in its course through the county it receives Bear 
creek, Rattling creek. Little creek, the Little Wisconisco, and 
several rivulets of less size. There are some ten or twelve 
grist mills, saw mills and factories, on the Wisconisco. 

Armstrong's creek rises in the Short mountain, and has a 
south western course of ten or tw^elve miles through Arm- 
strong valley, and empties into the Susquehanna about one 
mile above Halifax — it affords water for five or six mills. — 
Near its mouth stood fort Halifax, which had been erected 
by Colonel Clapham in 1756. — See Halifax, infra. 

Powell's creek rises in Powell's valley, between Short 
and Peter's mountain, flowing along the base of the 
last mentioned mountain, receiving in its course several small 
tributaries, and enters the Susquehanna river opposite Dun- 
can's island. It is a good mill stream. Its whole length is 
about twenty seven miles. 

Clark's creek rises in Clark's valley between Peter's and 
the Fourth mountain, flowing down said valley, nearly equi- 
distant between Peter's, the Fourth and the Third mountains, 
and falls into the Susquehanna river. Its whole course is 
about twenty eight miles. 

Stoney creek rises south of the Fourth mountain, and flows 
south west, betw^een the Second and Third mountains, in its 
course it receives the waters of the Cold spring, Yellow 
spring, Green spring, and other smaller streams, and turns 
several mills near its mouth, and empties into the Susque- 
hanna at Dauphin, eight miles above Harrisburg. 

Fishing creek rises near Smith's Gap, in the Blue moun- 
tain, flows south west between that mountain and the Second 
mountain, about ten miles into the Susquehanna, at McCal- 
lister's. 

Paxton creek rises in Lower Paxton township, at the base 
of the Blue mountain four miles north of Linglestown, 



220 HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 

whence it receives several branches, and flows west into the 
centre of Susquehannah township, thence running south, it 
passes the borough of Harrisburg, into Swatara township, 
and unites with the Susquehanna two miles below the bor- 
ough. It turns three or iour mills before it enters the first 
alluvial flats. 

Spring creek rises in Lower Paxton township, flows south 
into Susquehanna township, thence running south west 
through Swatara township, it falls into the Susquehanna 
about one third of a mile below the mouth of Paxton creek. 
It turns several mills. 

Suiatara creek rises in Schuylkill county on the south side 
of the Broad mountain, in its course towards its recipient it 
receives the Little Swatara, Quitopahilla creek, and many 
small streams, before it enters Dauphin county ; in its course 
through this county, for a distance of eighteen or twenty 
n)iles, it receives, on the north. Bow run, INIanady creek. 
Yellow run, Beaver creek and several smaller streams ; on 
the south. Spring creek, L. Mine run and other small streams. 
It falls into the Susquehanna river at Portsmouth. Its com- 
parative course is between fifty and sixty miles. The valley 
of this stream, as far as the Quitopahilla, forms the channel 
of the Union canal. 

Bow run rises in West Hanover township, about two miles 
north west of Hanover church, flows south, about six miles, 
and falls into Swatara creek, aff'ording water to one or two 
grist mills. 

Manady creek rises north of the Blue mountain ; its east 
branch rises in Lebanon county ; its west branch near the 
Second mountain, a few miles north of Smith's gap — the two 
branches unite and pass through Manady gap, and the creek 
in its course south through West Hanover township, receives 
Walnut run on the west, and several small streams on the 
east, and falls into the Swatara. It is a good mill stream. 
Its entire course is about thirteen miles. 

Yellow run is a small stream that rises in a southern part 
of West Hanover, and flows south into the Swatara. 

Beaver creek rises on the south side of the Blue mountain, 
and about a mile west of Smith's gap; flowing a southern di- 
rection, it receives in a course of ten miles, ten or twelve 
small tributaries. It falls into the Swatara, a few miles west 
o£ Hummelstown. 



HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 221 

Spring creek (there are two streams of this name in this 
county) rises in Londonderry township, Lebanon county, en- 
ters Londonderry of this county, flows a northwestern course 
through the township, and falls into the Swatara. It is not 
more than five miles long, but has several mills and a forge 
on it. 

L. Mine run rises near the " Round Top," in Derry town- 
ship, and empties into the Swatara. 

Conewago creek rises in Londonderry township, Lebanon 
county, and flows southwest along the north base of the Co- 
newago hills to the Susquehanna river, at the village of Fal- 
mouth, Lancaster, forming the boundary between Lancaster 
and Dauphin counties, having a course of about twenty-two 
miles. 

These streams afford abundant water power to mills, &c., 
viz. : to some thirty flouring mills, forty grist mills, between 
seventy and eighty saw mills, clover mills, forges, furnaces, 
&.C., &c. 

The public improvements, such as canals, railroads and 
turnpike roads, passing through this county in various direc- 
tions are numerous. The Union canal, made by a company, 
which was incorporated in l-^ll, passes through this county, 
following the Swatara creek for a distance of twenty miles, 
and connects with the state canal at Portsmouth, on the Sus- 
quehanna. 

The Pennsylvania canal extends along the Susquehanna 
river from the southern extremity of this couty to Duncan's 
island, sixteen miles above Harrisburg, where it crosses the 
river. The Wisconisco canal, commenced a few years ago, 
abandoned for a short time, but now drawing towards com- 
pletion, extends from Clark's ferry to Millersburg, at the 
mouth of Wisconisco creek, a distance of twelve miles. — 
This canal when completed will afford great facilities to 
transport the immense quantities of coals from the northern 
portion of the county. 

The Lyken's valley rail road, a single track of flat rails, 
is for the transportation of coal from the mines at Bear gap 
to the Susquehanna at Millersburg, a distance of sixteen 
mileS' 

The Williams valley road, it is anticipated, will, before 
many years be in operation. 

The Harrisburg and Lancaster rail road extends from 

19* 



222 HISTORY OF DAUPHIX COUNTY. 

Harrisburg to Dillerville, near Lancaster city, where it con- 
nects with the Philadelphia and Columbia rail road. The 
Cumberland valley railroad, crossing the Susquehanna river, 
passes through the borough of Harrisburg and connects with 
the Harrisburg and Lancaster rail road. 

There are turnpike roads leading from Harrisburg in vari- 
ous directions; three leading from the Capitol to Philadel- 
phia ; one by way of Reading ; one by way of Ephrata and 
Downingstown ; one through the city of Lancaster. There 
are two turnpikes from Harrisburg to Pittsburg ; one by the 
southern route through Carlisle ; the other by the northern 
route, up the Susquehanna, crossing at Duncan's island, 
thence up the Juniata, &c. There is also a turnpike road 
from Harrisburg to Baltimore, through Middletown and 
York. Another to York, down the west side of the Susque- 
hanna. These, and the common roads, with some exceptions, 
are kept in good order. 

Several fine bridges extend across the Susquehanna and 
other streams of the county. Two at Harrisburg ; the one 
built in 1812 to 1817, by a company, in which the State was 
a stockholder to the amount of $90,000, but since sold her 
interest. The bridge and toll houses cost $192,138.00.— 
See Article Harrisburg for an interesting sketch of this 
bridge. 

The other erected by the Cumberland Valley Railroad 
Company ; at a cost of $95,000.00, was destroyed by fire 
in December 1844 ; but is now (September 1845) rebuilding, 
and it is anticipated to be passable by August 1846. 

The third is at Duncan's island or Clark's ferry, built by 
the State, having a tow path attached to the south side for 
the purpose of drawing canal boats across the river at that 
place. 



CHAPTER XVII. 
Dauphin County — Harris settled at Peixtan or Pesh- 

TANK, &C. 

John Harris settled at Peixtan— Indian towns — Gov. Evans and others 
at Peixtan, in 1707, and apprehend one Nicole — Harris traded exten- 
sively with the Indians — Harris paid attention to agriculture. Ac- 
cording to tradition, some Indians attempted to burn the elder Har" 
ris. Harris attempted to improve lands at Choniata — Harris died, 
1748 — The' Penn's made Harris an offer for a large tract of land — 
Anecdotes of Esther Harris— Incident illustrative of the Indian char- 
acter—Harris's Ferry a celebrated place— Harris an active patriot — 
Bears seen in the river near Harrisburg by Robert Harris, now liv- 
ing—Wild turkeys abundant about Harris's in 1777-1785— Indians 
encamped near Elder's mill — Harrisburg sickly in 1793— Landis's 
mill the cause of it — Mill-dam removed ; mill purchased, &c.— Gray- 
don, in his memoirs, alludes to the sickness that prevailed—Old hou- 
ses — Rev. Montgomery — Chief Justice McKean — General Washing- 
ton's head quarters in 1794— Extract from the court Records— Names 
of the first jury—Harns's Ferry changed to Lewisburg— Seat of gov- 
ernment, «&c. — Miscellaneous facts, &c., &c. 

The first settlement, within the limits of Dauphin, chiefly 
consisted of emigrants from the north of Irehind and Scot- 
land, who commenced the improvement of farms prior to 1719 
or 1720 ; for, it is evident, from authentic sources, that the 
Presbyterians organized the Paxton church and Derry church 
in 1720.* If tradition may, in this case, be relied on, John 
Harris, a native Yorkshire, who, it is said, was the first set- 
tler of the Conewa^o hills, must have commenced a settlement 
at or near the present site of Harrisburg, prior to 1719. 

The following, from the pen of George Washington, Har- 
ris, Esq., a great-grand-son of John Harris of Yorkshire, 
appeared a few years ago in " Mr. Napey's Harrisburg Bu- 

* See Harrisburg. Presbyterian church, infra. 



224 HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 

siness Directory, to which some intercalated and foot notes 
are added. 

" The first John Harris is said to have been a native of 
Yorkshire, England. He was a middle aged man when he 
immigrated to America, and he first settled in Philadelphia. 
He was there married to Esther Say, an English lady, and 
who was a woman of rather extraordinary energy and capa- 
city. 

They first moved to Chester county; thence to, or near 
the mouth of Conoy creek, on the Susquehanna, about the 
present site of Bainbridge, in Lancaster county, and finally 
to the present site of Harrisburg. At this place was born, 
about the year 1726, his son, John Harris, the founder of 
Harrisburg, and who, it is said, to have been '^ the first white 
child born in Pennsylvania, west of tke Conewago hills J" 

About the time of the settlement of John Harris, at (Peix- 
tan) Harrisburg, Indian Towns were existing near to Squire 
Will's stone house, (in Cumberland county) opposite Harris- 
burg, and at the mouth of the Conedoguinnett and Yellow 
Breeches creeks. There had been one on the low ground on 
the river, about the lower line of Harrisburg, and another at 
the mouth of Paxton creek. These two last are supposed to 
have been abandoned at the time of making his settlement. 
The Indians, who resided in this neighborhood, were of the 
Six JVations ;* and, it is said, that at one time, by firing a 

* Six Nations. Passing by the traditions touching the former resi- 
dence of the several Indian Nations, prior to their "Union," I would 
remark, that the great western confederacy of Indian Nations, has gen- 
erally been styled by the French, Iroquois, (Les Iroquois sont partager en 
ring cantons, scavoir les Tsonontoua7is, les Goyogoans, les Onnotagucs, les Onv- 
yants, el les Jignies), generally at first called "The Five Nations," 
afterward " The Six Nations." 

The MoH\.WKS are said to be the oldest of the confederacy, and that 
the Onoyants, or Oneidas, joined first with the Mohawks ; the Onnota- 
gw€s," or Onondagos were the next ; then the Tsononttians, or Senecas, 
(Sinkers ;) then the Goyogoans, or Cayugas. The Tuscaroras, from Ca- 
rolina, placed themselves under the protection of the Five Nations, in 
1713 or 1714, but were not formally admitted till above 1722 or 1723. 
The Six Nations called themselves by the name of Aquanusthioni, i. e. 
" United People." 

The Shawanese, who lived on the West Branch of the Susquehanna 
and in Cumberland county, were not of the confederacy, but were call- 
ed brothers by ihem; nevertheless, they looked upon them as infe- 
riors. They occupied, says Drake, before tho French wars, a great 
extent of country, some of their towns being eighty miles asunder. 



HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 225 

gun, six or seven hundred warriors could be assembled at the 
present site of Harrisburg- 

The Indian village was called Peixtan, as appears from 
the following extract from the Provincial Records. And from 
it, we also learn, that the Honorable John Evans, Esq. Lieu- 
tenans Governor of the Province of Pennsylvania, accompa- 
nied by Messrs. John French, William Tonge, Michel Be- 
zaillion, one Mr. Grey, and four servants, visited Peixtan, in 
June, 1707. 

On Tuesday, the 1st July, 1707, we went to Conestogo 
and lay there that night, and the next morning proceeded on 
our journey, and arrived in the evening within three miles of 
an Indian village, called Peixtan. The governor had recei- 
ved information at Peqiiehan, that one JSicole, a French In- 
dian trader, was at that place, against whom great complaints 
had been made to the governor, of which he acquainted the 
Chief Indian at Peixtan, as also of his design to seize him : 
who willingly agreed to it ; but advised the governor to be ve- 
ry cautious in the manner : there being only young people at 
home, who, perhaps might make some resistance, if it were 
done without their being first told of it ; for this reason we 
lay short of the village that night ; but early in the morn- 
ing, we went within a half a mile of the town, and leaving 
our horses, marched a foot near the same ; from whence the 
governor sent Martine to the village ; ordering him to tell 
Nicole that he had brought two caggs of rum with him, 
which he had left in the woods, for fear any christians were 
there ; and withal to persuade Nicole to go with him and 
taste the rum. Martine returned with James Letort and 
Joseph Jessop, two Indian traders, but could not prevail 
with Nicole ; upon which Martine was sent back, with or- 
ders to bring down some Indians, and Nicole with them — 
then we drew nearer to town, and laid ourselves in the 
bushes, and Martine returned with two Indians, whom the 
governor acquainted with his intent of taking Nicole, telling 
at the same time, he had spoken with the uncle of one of 
them upon that head, who ordered the Indians to submit to 
the governor's commands, with which they were contented, 
tho' we perceived too well the contrary, by their inquiring 
how many we were, and how armed ; and the concern they 
seemed to be in, when they found we were more men in num- 
ber than they : but still Nicole was wanting ; it was there- 



226 



HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



lore, resolved to try once more if he could be got into the 
woods; accordingly Martine went again to the place and 
brought Nicole where we lay conclealed, and asking him to 
drink a dram, he seized him ; but Nicole started from him, 
and run for it, when immediately we started out and took 
him, and presently carried him to the village (Peixtan) 
through which we were obliged to pass ; and there we found 
some Indians, with guns in their hands, who looked much 
displeased at what we had done; but being in readiness 
against any surprise, they thought it not fit to attempt any 
thing. Here we staid about half an hour, and then parted 
for Turpyhocken — having mounted Nicole on a horse, and 
tied his legs under the belly, we got within a mile of Turpy- 
hocken at about two of the clock. On Friday morning, 
about seven, the governor went to the town, from thence we 
went to Manatawny that night, and the next day to Phila- 
delphia. — Colonial Records, ii. p. 404, '5. 

"John Harris fixed his habitation on the bank of the river, 
below the grave yard, and he dug the well now existing there • 
About twenty years ago the cellar of one of his buildings 
was visible. He traded extensively wilh the Indians, and 
had connected with his house, a large range of sheds, which 
were sometimes literally filled with skins and furs, mostly ob- 
tained by him in traffic with the Indians, and stored there by 
ths Indian traders, who brought them from the western 
country. These skins and furs were carried, at an early day, 
on pack horses to Philadelphia. John Harris experienced 
much difficulty at his first settlement, as his supplies could 
not be had nearer than Philadelphia, and had thence to be 
transported on pack horses to his place of residence, 

" His attention, however, was not confined to trading with 
the Indians ; he engaged extensively in agriculture, and from 
the statement of old Parson Elder to William Maclay, ' he 
was the first ]jerso7i ivho introduced the plough on the Sus- 
quehanna.' 

" An incident in his life has excited considerable interest, 
and been the subject of much inquiry : 

'* On one occasion, a band of Indians, who had been down 
the river, or as is said, to the East, on a trading excursion, 
came to his house. Some, or most of them, were intoxicated- 
They asked for lum, meaning West India rum, as the mod- 
ern whiskey was not then manufactured in Pennsylvania. — 



HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 227 

Seeing they were already intoxicated, he feared mischief, if 
he gave them more; and he refused. They became enraged 
and seized and tied him to the mulberry tree to burn him. — 
Whilst they were proceeding to execute their purpose, he 
was released, after a struggle, by other Indians of the neigh- 
borhood, who generally came across the river. How the 
alarm was given to them, whether by firing a gun or other- ■ 
wise, or by whom, is not now certainly known. In remem- 
brance of this event, he aftei wards directed that on his 
death, he should be buried under the mulberry tree, which 
had been the scene of this adventure. Part of the trunk of 
this tree is still standing. It is ten feet up to the lowest 
limb, and the stump is eleven feet, six inches in circumfer- 
ence. The writer (G. W. Harris,) of this has eaten mulber- 
ries from this tree, which was one of the largest of its 
species." 

It would appear that John Harris had commenced clearing 
a plantation to carry on trade at the mouth of Choniata (Ju- 
niata river) prior to 1732 or 1733. June 19, 1733, at a 
council held at Philadelphia, Shickalamy, a chief, by Conrad 
Weiser, as interpreter, asked whether the Proprietor had 
heard of a letter which he and Sassoonan sent to John Har- 
ris, to desire him to desist from making a plantation at the 
mouth of Choniata, where Harris has built a house and is 
clearing fields. 

They were told that Harris had only budt that house for 
carrying on his trade; that his plantation, on which he has 
houses, barns, &c., at Pextang, is his place of dwelling, and 
it is not to be supposed he will remove trora thence ; that he 
has no warrant or order for making a settlement on Choniata. 

Shekallamy* said that though Harris may have built a 
house for the conveniency of his trade, yet he ought not to 
clear fields To this it was answered, that Harris had pro- 
bably cleared as much land only as would be sufficient to 
raise corn for his horses. Shekallamy said he had no ill will 
to John Harris, it was not his custom to bear ill will, but he 

* Shekallamy was an Indian of much consequence among the Five 
Nations. He was the father of the celebrated Logan. It appears he 
was a Cayuga sachem, and styled by Loskiel, " first magistrate and head 
chief of all the Iroquois Indians living on the banks of the Susquehan- 
na, as far as Onondago. He died at Shamokin, his residence, in 1749. 
He had been a great friend to Moravian missionaries. 



228 HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 

is afraid that the warriors of the Six Nations, when they pass 
that way, may take it ill to see a settlement made on lands 
which they had always desired to be kept free from any per- 
son settling on. He was told, in answer, that care should be 
taken to give the necessary orders in it. — Col. Rec. in., p. 
541. 

" John Harris died about the year 1748, and was buried 
where he had directed — under the shade of his own memor- 
able tree ; and there his remains still repose, with those of 
some of his children. The title to the grave yard, to the 
extent of fifteen feet square, is secured by conveyance from 
the Commissioners who laid out the town. The Deed is re- 
corded in book A. in the Recorder's office at Harrisburg. — 
In the words of Parson Elder, who knew him w^ell, "he was 
as honest a man as ever broke bread." 

" It may be curious now to know that John Harris was 
once offered by the Penns, all of the land from the river to 
Silver Spring, and extending across the Cumberland Valley, 
from mountain to mountain, for £5,000. He offered £3,000 
refused to give more. At his death he owned about nine 
hundred acres of land, including the present site of Harris- 
burg and Maclaysburg, and extending down to the upper 
line of Fulton's place — also, two hundred acres on the op- 
posite shore from Harrisburg, now owned by Messrs. Hum- 
mel and Lebkicher and including the Ferry, and Gen. Simp- 
son's place below Yellow Breeches, extending to the South 
mountain, and including Shriners Island ; and seven or eight 
hundred acres at the mouth of Conedoguinnett creek on the 
upper side, where the old Indian town had once been. 

"Of Esther, the wife of John Harris, several anecdotes are 
told which establish her promptness and energy of character. 

" The Mansion House, situated on the river bank, as be- 
fore mentioned, was surrounded by a stockade for security 
against the Indians. An English officer was one night at the 
house, when by accident the gate of the stockade was left 
unfastened. The officer, clothed in his regimentals, was seat- 
ed with Mr. Harris and his wife at the table. An Indian 
entered the gate of the stockade and thrust his riMe through 
one of the port holes of the house, and it is supposed pointed 
it at the officer. The night being damp, the gun simply 
fiashed. Instantly Mrs. Harris blew out the candle, to pre- 
vent the Indian aiming a second time, and he retreated. 



HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



229 



" It has been observed that John Harris kept articles for 
trade with the Indians. At one period Mrs. Harris had an 
Irish girl in her employ. On one occasion, she was sent up 
stairs for some purpose, and she took with her a piece of 
lighted candle without a candlestick. The girl soon came 
down without the candle, and on Mrs. H. asking what she 
had done with it, she said she had stuck it into the barrel of 
flaxseed. This, however, happened to be a barrel oi powder. 
Mrs. Harris instantly rose, and without saying a word, for 
fear of alarming the girl, went up stairs, and advancing to 
the barrel, cautiously placed her hands under the candle 
and lifted it out — and then coolly reproved the girl for her 
carelessness. These occurrences prove her to have been well 
fitted for the life of a pioneer. 

"An incident is related to have happened at the present 
site of Harrisburg, which is highly illustrative of the Indian 
character and superstition: 

"A party of Indians from the Susquehanna went off on a 
war or predatory excursion against the Southern Indians. In 
the course of the expedition, a hostile Indian was killed, and 
one of his relatives determined on revenge. He is said to 
have come from the Catawba in South Carolina. He came 
alone, and eventually reached the bank of the river opposite 
to the present site of Harrisburg. He there secreted himself, 
to observe the fording place, and watching an opportunity of 
glutting his revenge- Having observed the ford below the 
Island, he one night crossed the river, and cautiously ap- 
proached the Indian Town, a short distance below. As he 
advanced a dog barked, and an aged squaw came to the door 
of one of the wigwams to ascertain the cause of the distur- 
bance. The Indian leaped forward and sinking his hatchet 
into her brain, drew his knife and scalped her ; then raising 
the war whoop, he ran to the river, leaped into a canoe, and 
'made across the river. The Town was aroused and the war- 
riors gave chase; but, though closely pursued, it is said he 
escaped, and bore awny in triumph the bloody trophy, the 
evidence of his courage and barbarity. 

"John Harris, the Founder of Harrisburg, died July 29tii, 

1791, and is buried in the grave-yard of Paxton church. He 

was about 65 years of age, and was consequently born, at 

least as early as 1726. 

" Under the will of his father, and bv purchase, he became 

20 



230 HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUKTY. 

the owner of seven hundred acres of land, on a part of which 
Harrisburg is now laid out. It extended up to the lower line 
of Maclaysburg. He was an active, energetic and industrious 
man. He farmed extensively, and also traded with the whites 
and Indians, for skins and furs ; and his son, the present Ro- 
bert Harris, has seen ten or a dozen wagon loads of skins and 
furs in his father's storehouse, belonging to him and to Indian 
traders. In his time Harris' Ferry became a celebrated place. 
It is said to have been so well known in Ireland, England 
anp Germany, that letters were directed from those countries 
" to the care of John Harris, Harris' Ferry, N. America." 
He was successful in business, and had an extensive acquain-" 
tance throughout Pennsylvania. 

" He had strong faith in the advantages of the position of 
his property here. It is said that twenty or more years 
before the Town was laid out, he observed to a gentleman, 
Mr. Hollenback, who afterwards settled at Wilkesbarre, that 
this place would become the centre of business in this section 
of country, and would be the Seat of Government of Penn- 
sylvania. 

" When the Town was laid out in 1785, he conveyed, 
with other property, to the Commissioners, for laying out the 
Town, viz : Jacob Awl, Joshua Elder, Andrew Stewart, 
Jameb Cowden, and William Brown, the four acres of ground 
on Capitol Hill, to the east of the present State buildings, 
'in trust for public use, and such public purposes as the Leg- 
islature shall hereafter direct.' 

"That he was patriotic, the following incident will es- 
tablish : 

" When Independence was agitated, he thought the De- 
claration premature. He feared that the Colonies were une- 
qual to the task of combating with Great Britain ; but when 
Independence was declared, the present Robert Harris ob- 
serves, that his Father took his Mother aside, and in the 
presence of his son, read to her the Declaration from a Phi- 
ladelphia newspaper. When he concluded it, he observed, 
'that the act was now done, and that we must take sides, 
either for or against the country. The war in which we are 
about to engage, cannot be carried on without money. Now, 
we have £3,000 in the house, and if you are agreed, I will 
take the money to Philadelphia and put it into the Public 
Treasury to carry on the war. If we succeed in obtaining 



HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 231 

our Independence, we may lose the money, as the Govern- 
ment may not be able to pay it back, but we will get our 
land.' She agreed and he carried the money to Philadel- 
phia and deposited it in the Treasury, and took certificates. 
After the war, he sold these certificates for 17s. 6d. in the 
pound. After the debt was funded, certificates rose to twen- 
ty-five shillings for the pound. 

" The law erecting Dauphin county and declaring Harris' 
Ferry the seat of Justice, was passed 4th March, 1785. 

" The Town of Harrisburg was laid out in the Spring of 
the same year. William Maclay,* who was the son-in-law 
of John Harris, laid out the Town and made the draft of the 
plan and drew the various conveyances from John Harris to 
the Commissioners. 

" The Ice-flood happened in the winter of 1784-5, and the 
Pumpkin-flood in the fall of 1787. Duriug the Ice-flood, 
the low ground about the grave yard was covered with wa- 
ter, and the Ferry-flats were tied to the bars of the cellar 
windows of the iStone House. On that occasion, the water 
rose into the first story of Judge Carson's house, above Har- 
risburg, and a considerable part of the river ran around that 
house and down Paxton creek. The fences on its route were 
generally carried away. During the Pumpkin-flood, the 
ground about the grave yard was also covered with water, 
and the pumpkins carried off chiefly from the Yankees in 
Wyoming Valley, were strewed in profusion over the low 
ground below Harrisburg. 

" The bricks of Judge Carson's house were made in its 
neighborhood, but the shingles and boards used in its con- 
struction, were brought from Philadelphia. 

" When the Town was laid out, the old orchard extended 
up to about the line of Mulberry street, and down to near 
the stone house. About the intersection of Mulberry and 
Second streets, was a ridge, from which the ground descend- 
ed from six to ten feet to the present Market Square, and the 
water ran from the Square upwards and into the river, along 
the channel which is under the bridge, now erected across 
Front street above Walnut street. When the Town was laid 
out, the ground above Market street was chiefly in woods. 

• William Maclay with Robert Morris, afterwards represented Penn- 
sylrania, ia the first Senate of the U. States, under the Constitutiion. 



232 HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 

" The present Robert Harris has frequently seen several 
bears killed in the river in one day. In the fall of the year 
they would come down from the mountains to the corn fields, 
and were quite abundant in the neighborhood. It was quite 
common to see them whilst riding along the roads. In the 
year preceding the Revolution, they abounded more than 
usual in this neighborhood. The farmers when going out to 
plough, would frequently take their guns to guard against 
their depredations. 

" When Robert Harris and Mrs. Hanna were children, 
they were one day playing at the river at the mouth of the 
run, at the end of Walnut street. A thicket of bushes ex- 
tended up along the run. Some boys came running from the 
barn on the bank, and called to them that two bears were 
coming down the run. They scampered up the bank, and 
presently the bears came along and took into the river. 

" This occurrence is trifling in itself, but may be consider- 
ed interesting as having joccurred on the site of the present 
Capitol of the State. 

"On one occasion, a man named Rennox, with some others, 
went out on the river in a canoe in pursuit of a bear. When 
the canoe approached near to it, Rennox made a stroke at 
the bear with his socket pole, but missed it. He either lost 
his balance, or was drawn overboard by the weight of the 
pole, and the bear struck him with his paw, and tore his 
cheek open. 

" Wild Turkeys were also abundant about Harrisburg dur- 
ing the revolution and after it. Mrs. Hanna has seen her 
father John Harris, shoot wild turkeys from the door of his 
stone house. Beaver and Otter were then and afterwards, 
killed along Paxton creek and on the Islands in the neigh- 
borhood. Otters were, however, more abundant than Bea- 
ver, and were very plenty. 

" On one occasion, a party of Indians came down the river 
to murder the people of this settlement. They formed a 
camp in a thicket, back of Mr. Elder's mill dam. They de- 
signed falling on the people when at worship in Paxton 
church. They are supposed to have come on Monday, and 
after waiting several days, they came to the conclusion that 
the congregation would not assemble, and they went off. — 
They left the settlement by the way of Indian-town-gap. — 
On their way off, they murdered several persons and took a 



HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 533 

prisoner, from whom it was afterwards ascertained that they 
had been encamped here several days. The late Joshua El- 
der has seen the encampment. The people of the Congrega- 
* tion before and afterwards came to the church armed ; and 
Mr. Elder, the pastor, also carried his gun into the pulpit. — 
Mr. Elder was pastor of that church when it was built, 
about 106 years ago, and preached to that congregation, and 
in the Derry church, upwards of sixty years. He was Col. 
of the Paxton Rangers, whose duty it was to keep a look 
out for the Indians, and range the settlements for their pro- 
tection, from the Blue mountain to the river. 

" The late Judge Buchei's father,* who was a clergyman 
in Lebanon, was also a Colonel in the same kind of service. 

" Parson Elder wore a small cocked hat, and such were 
usually worn by clergymen in this day. 

" About the year 1793, Harrisburg was exceedingly sickly. 
A fever of a violent character prevailed, especially amongst 
the new settlers or foreigners. At the same time the yellow 
fever was prevaihng in Philadelphia, and fears were enter- 
tained of its introduction into Harrisburg. A patrol was ac- 
cordingly established at the lower end of the Town, to pre- 
vent infected persons from Philadelphia coming into it. A 
considerable number of Irish emigrants died, and some of the 
citizens ; but most families of the place were to some extent 
afflicted. A mill dam owned by two men named Landis, 
was generally thought to be the cause of this sickness. — 
The citizens, after various meetings, resolved in March, 
1795, on its removal, and a subscription was set on foot to 
raise money to pay the Landis' for the property. The site 
of the mill, dam and race had been bought from John Har- 
ris. His heirs, David Harris, Robert Harris, William Maclay 
and John A. Hanna, paid 81,600, the purchase money, or 
perhaps something more than the amount, which the Landis' 
had paid for the property, and the citizens generally contri- 

* The Rev. John Conrad Fnrher was a native Swiss — came to Ame- 
rica in 1755, took up hu abode at Carlisle — was commissioned as a 
Lieutenant, April 19, 1760 — promoted to a captaincy of the Pennsylva- 
nia Regiment of foot, July 31, 1764. A more indefatigable minister of 
the gospel, never labored in the German Reformed Church, than the 
Rev. Bucher. He was one of the most devoted ministers of the day ; 
truly apostolic in all his labors. He was a shining light, consuming 
itself, as it illuminated others by its splendor. He died, August 15, 
1780 — and is buried at Lebanon. — Contpiler, 

20* 



234 HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 

buted in addition. The money raised was tendered to the 
Landis', who refused it. The citizens then prepared for the 
forcible removal of the dam, and the Landis' threatened to 
use force to prevent it. The citizens accordingly marched 
in a body to the dam, on a cold snowy day in March. The 
owners were there with several men, armed with guns, 
threatening to fire. The citizens, however, advanced into 
the water, and the dam was soon demolished. The Landis' 
threatened suit, and the citizens handed to them a list of sev- 
eral hundred names to be sued ; but, the proprietors finally 
took the money.* 

"Moses Gilmore, Stacy Potts, Capt. John Sawyers, Adam 
Boyd, Robert Harris, John Kean, Samuel Weir, Gen. John 
A. Hanna, Alexander and Samuel Berryhill,and many others, 
were active in the above proceedings. 

" It may be remarked that some citizens of Harrisburg, 
who refused to contribute to the subscription, were obliged 
to leave the place. No violence was offered to them, but no 
one would employ them in their several pursuits, and they at 
length went elsewhere. 

"The mill was erected about one quarter of a mile below 
Harrisburg — about as low down as the white house,- which 
is situate on the old mill road and the canal ; and the race 
extended up along or nearly along the present route of the 
Pennsylvania canal, to a lane which ran across to the Hill, 
about the upper line of Mr. Dowding's brick yard lot, where 
the dam was erected. 

" The Town as laid out by John Harris, extended as far 
down the bank as Mulberry street, and the lot belonging to 
the late Valentine Egle, on the upper corner of Front street 
and Mulberry street, was numbered one on the plan of the 
Town. In the course of one, two or three years afterwards, 
he extended the plan as low down as Mary's Alley, which 
bounds the stone house lot on the upper side. His executors 
in 1792, extended the plan of lots further down. 

" There is no house, except the stone house, now standing 
within the present limits of Harrisburg, which is certainly 
known to have been erected before the Town was laid out. 
The log house, erected in the rear of Hise's brewery, on 

• See the Notes, Remarks, &c., at the conclusion of this Chapter — 
(xvii.) 



HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 235 

Front street, was built abount tbe time the Town was laid 
out ; but whether it was begun before that time, is not re- 
collected. 

" John Hamilton erected the first permanent embellishment 
to the Town, after Harris' stone house, by building the brick 
house on the corner of Front street and Blackberry Alley ; 
and also, the large establishment for his store, on the corner 
of Market Square and Market streets, now known as the 
" Washington Hotel.*' He was an extensive trader. In 
place of the present rapid modes of conveying merchandize 
and passengers to Pittsburg, he kept large numbers of horses 
and mules, and every few weeks his caravans set out " for 
the west," laden with salt, powder, lead, &c. 

" The first Clergyman established in Harrisburg, was the 
Rev. Mr. Montgomery, a Presbyterian. His first discourse, 
we have heard, was delivered in the lot on which the Pres- 
byterian church is now erected, on a pleasant afternoon in 
June. The congregation — the whole Village — were shelter- 
ed by two or three large apple trees, and some noble oaks, 
the primitive growth of the forest. 

"Chief Justice M'Kean, resided here for some time, at 
least while Congress sat at York. He Hved in a substantial 
one-story log house, a short space above what is now Locust 
street. He wore an immense cocked hat, and had great de- 
ference shown him by the country people, and the straggling 
Indians who had their village on what is now M'Kees' place. 
This was in 1778-'79; after the country quieted, when he 
and the other Judges of the Supreme Court came to Harris- 
burg to hold a court, numbers of the citizens of the place 
would go out on horseback to meet them and escort them to 
Town. Sometimes one or two hundred people would attend 
for the purpose. The Sheriff with his rod of office, and 
other public officers, and the Bar, would attend on the occa- 
sion — and each morning, whilst the Chief Justice was in 
Town, holding court, the Sheriff and Constables escorted 
him from his lodgings to the Court Room. 

"The Chief Justice, when on the Bench, sat with his hat 
on, and was dressed in a scarlet gow^n. 

" Gen. Washington's head quarters, while at Harris' Fer- 
ry, on the Western expedition, were in a small frame house, 
which stood until the last few years, at the corner of Vine 
and Paxton streets. 



236 HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 

" The writer of this has heard his grandmother say, that 
the whole extent of country, from the west bank of the Sus- 
quehanna to Carhsle, and beyond, was without timber upon 
it, when she was young. That the centre of the Valley had 
not a tree to be seen on its surface from the South to the 
Blue mountain. Now it is called a well timbered country. 

" The building in which the first Court was held still 
stands — the dilapidated log house in the rear of what was 
Hise's brewery. The Courts were afterwards held in the 
log house erected on the east or lower side of Market street, 
on the corner of Market street and Dewberry Alley, which 
is nearest to the river. 

" The earliest record of a Court reads: — At a Court of 
Quarter Sessions holden near Harris' Ferry, in and for the 
county of Dauphin," &c., on the " Third Tuesday of May, 
in the year of your Lord 1785," before " Timothy Green, 
Samuel Jones, and Jonathan M'Clure, Esq'rs., Justices of the 
same Court." 

"The Sheriff of Lancaster County exercised the same 
office for this, then, new county. 

" The names of the Jurymen were : 

" James Cowden, (Foreman,) Robert Montgomery, John 
Gilchrist, Barefoot Brunson, John Clark, Rowan M'Clure, 
John Carson, John Wilson, William Crane, Archibald M'Al- 
lister, Richard Dixon, John Pattimore, James Crouck, Jacob 
Awl, William Brown, Andrew Stewart, James Rogers, Sam- 
uel Stewart, John Cooper, Alexander Berryhill. 

" Joshua Elder was the first Prothonotary ; Anthony Kel- 
ker the first Sheriif ; Rudolph Kelker Deputy Sheriff. 

" On the juries for the next three or four terms, we recog- 
nize the names of many of the ancestors of our present citi- 
zens — the Cox's — the Keller's — Krause's — Hamilton's — 
Forster's — Bucher's — Elder's — Rutherford's — Orth's — the 
Fox's, &c. 

" The earliest record of a punishment is the account of 
one inflicted on Wm. Courtenay and Jesse Rowland, who 
were sentenced to receive eighteen lashes and pay fifteen 
shillings sterling, on the 18th of August 1785, between " the 
hours of four and six o'clock in the afternoon." Several re- 
cords occur in which punishment was inflicted by lashes and 
" standing in the pillory." 

" At the August sessions of 1786, we find noted, that the 



HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 237 

name of the Town had been changed from Harris' Ferry to 
Louisburg, by " order of the Supreme Executive Council." 
At what time it was changed back again, we can find no 
note. 

" The law for locating the Seat of Government at this 
place, was approved 21st February, 1810. The offices were 
removed from Lancaster 12th October, 1812, and the Com- 
missioners tor the purpose were, Robert Harris, George 
Hoyer, George Zeigler. 

" The Town of Harrisburg, auspiciously begun, has stea- 
dily advanced. The prophecy of John Harris has been ful- 
filled, and it is now the Seat of Government of Pennsyl- 
vania." 



LANDIS'S MILL. 

Notes, Remarks, &c., see page 234. 

April 16th, 1790, John Harris sold to Peter, John and 
Abraham Landis a mill seat, the privileges of a dam and 
mill race, containing three acres of land : subsequently, they 
purchased a small piece of land from Gen. John A. Hanna, 
in addition to that purchased from Mr. Harris, whereupon 
they erected a mill, &c. In 1792, in autumn, the sickness 
alluded to before, commenced. May 9, 3794, the Landis's 
proposed to the citizens of the borough of Harrisburg, to sell 
them the mill and all the other privileges belonging thereto, 
for the sum of £2600 : the first payment of £1600 to be 
paid in wheat ; whereof £530 belonged to the estate of John 
Harris, deceased. The balance was to be paid as follows, 
viz: £500 May 1st, 1765, with interest from date : £500 
May 1st, 1796. The Landis's, in this proposition, reserved 
(.he house and lot for one year. 

In the fall of 1793 and 1794, the fever was of a very ma- 
lignant character. The citizens of the borough entered upon 
decisive measures for the speedy removal of what they con- 
ceived as the cause of the epidemic. Meetings were held, 



238 HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 

committees appointed, funds were raised and tendered to the 
Landis's, the mill dam removed, the mill purchased, &c., as 
will appear from the following extracts from papers, kindly 
furnished me by Judge J. C. Bucher, procured by Mr. R. 
F. Kelker. 

At a meeting of the inhabitants of the Borough of Harris- 
burg, on the 16th day of January, 1795, it was unanimously 
agreed, that two thousand and six hundred pounds be imme- 
diately assessed on the property of the citizens of the said 
Borough ; that one thousand and six hundred pounds of the 
said sum be collected on or before the first day of March 
next ; that the remaining one thousand pounds be secured to 
be paid with interest, in two equal annual instalments, and 
that the whole (to wit, the sixteen hundred pounds in cash, 
and the residue in bonds,) be tendered to Peter & Abraham 
Landis, or either of them, proprietors of the mills and other 
waterworks, with the appurtenances thereto belong, near the 
Borough aforesaid, as a full compensation for their property 
in the same : and, that in case they refuse to accept the said 
sura as a full compensation for the said mill with the appur- 
tenances ; that then we unanimously agree to prostrate the 
dam erected on the waters on Paxton creek, for the purpose 
of conveying water to said mill, and pay our proportionable 
parts of all legal expenses and damages, that may accrue on 
any suit or suits, indictment or indictments, that may be 
brought or prosecuted in consequence of such act or acts. 

Witness our hands and date aforesaid. 

W. Graydon, Galb. Patterson, John Wyeth, Samuel Weir, 
Robert Harris, J. Bucher, Henry Baeder, Frederick Youse, 
G. Fisher, Stacy Potts, Alex. Berryhill, Wm- Wallace, Geo. 
Ziegler, Michael Kapp, jr., Patrick Murray, John Hocker, 
Thomas Murray, John Norton, Jacob Zollinger, Irwin and 
Howard, George Hoyer, Tho. Forster, George PfefFer, Adam 
Boyd, Valentine Horter, Anthony Riehl, William Ingram, 
Christian Ewig, John Benner, John Pool, jr., Joseph Bener, 
Jacob Wain, Balthazer Sees, Christopher Suesz, Charles 
Miller, Thomas Bennet, Henry Isett, Thomas Gregg, Law- 
rence Bennetch, William Glass, John Balszle, Johannes Zinn, 
Henrich Ruthrauff, George Waltz, Herman Anthony Leyer, 
John Shields, George Fritle, John Weir, John Dentzel, An- 
drew Forrest, John Heisz, Archibald McAlister, John Hoge, 
Benjamin Fenton, Anthony Seyfert, Samuel Hill, Hugh Ste- 



HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 239 

phen, William Mears, Christian Kunkle, Simon Schneider, 
Jacob Schneider, Jacob Reitzel, Henry Sayler, Tobias Sey- 
both, George Youse, John Shock, John Gillum, Moses Gil- 
mer, James Duncan, Jacob Youse, Alexander Cummins, John 
Cummins, Andrew Armstrong, Conrad Bombach, Michael 
Kapp, John Gilchrist, J. Montgomery, Peter Gray bill, (?) 
John A. Hanna, Philip Brindle, Jacob Welshance, James 
Sayers, William Graydon, Gawin J. Beatty, John Romjeau, 
Peter Fahnestock, B. Kurtz, Geo. Wiltberger, John Ebbert, 
Samuel Berryhill, Andrew Ream, Robert Barr, Adam Hoo- 
ker, Simon Wingert, John Dralley, George Hatz, Mathias 
Hutman, Peter Walter, Peter Denig, Edward JSurke, J. 
Kean. 

We, the subscribers, do promise to pay the sums annexed 
to our names, to Conrad Bumbaugh, Esq., as a gratuity to- 
wards paying the expense of the purchase, or the reduction 
of the mill dam on Paxton creek, next the Borough of Har- 
risburg, and that when called upon. Witness our hands, 
Jan. 21, 1795. 

William Crabb $20, Maj. Swiney 15, George Whitehill 
10 Jacob Burckhart 8, George Reitzel 6, Solomon Markel 
4, John Peiffer 16, Anthony Seyfert 10, John Maclay 20, 
Samuel Elder 6, Nathaniel R. Snowden 15, Peter Reitzel 4, 
Benjamin Hunt 10, Jacob Fridley 2, John Patterson 4, John 
Gilchrist 6, Joseph Wiegley 8, John Spangler 8, Thomas 
Gregg 10, Thomas Dickey 2, Mordecai McKinney 4, Sam- 
uel Awl 4, Irwin & Howard 12, William Patterson 4, John 
McFarland 4, Anthony Kelker 2, Robert Boal 2, Edward 
Crouch 2, William Stewart 2, Samuel Finney 2, John Weid- 
man 2, James Byers 2, John Martin 1, Peter Lein 1, Simon 
Basler 1, George Lutz 50 cents., William Krebs.l, Jacob 
Ziegler 1, Jacob Fetter 1, William Porter 2, C. B.'l, Peter 
Bobe 1, Christian Walborn 1, Thomas Trousdale 1, William 
Allen 2, Robert Freckelton 2, Jacob Houck 6, Charles Ro- 
wen 2,33 cts., Rudolph Kelker 4, James Reed 1. 

At a meeting of the committee of seven appointed to su- 
perintend, and direct the appropriation of the monies raised 
for the demolition of the mill dam, and for the further re- 
moving the nuisance in Paxton creek, April 8th 1795. 

At Brindles — present. Potts, Gilmore, Berryhill, W. Gray- 
don, Dentzell, Bucher, Kean. 

John Kean was appointed Secretary and Treasurer — Or- 



240 HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 

dered that the treasurer take up the bonds due to Adam 
Boyd and to George Allen- Adjourned to Saturday even- 
ing next at 6 o'clock at M. Berryhill's. 

Saturday 11th, the committee met and viewed the dam, 
and adjourned till Monday evening at 6 o'clock, at Berry- 
hill's. 

Monday 13th met, and the members mentioned the names 
of persons wishing to borrow money — agreed that the mo- 
ney be retained in the treasury lor a few days longer. — 
Agreed that on Saturday next at 1 o'clock, the bell be rung 
and the inhabitants assemble and demolish the rem. of the 
dam. 

Saturday ISth, the committee met, and proceeded with a 
number of the inhabitants to the dam. Committee hired 
four persons to open the bed of the creek twelve feetvwide, 
which was done, and the persons employed were paid six 
dollars which was raised by voluntary contribution on the 
spot. 

Saturday 25th April 1795, the committe met, Peter, John 
and Abraham Landis attended, and offered to take £2000 
for the water right, which the committee positively refused. 
April 25, 1795, Peter Landis, John Landis and Abraham 
Landis, sold to Stacy Potts, Moses Gillmore, Wilham Gray- 
don, Jacob Bucher, John Kean, John Dentzel and Alexander 
Berryhill, of the borough of Harrisburg (a committee chosen 
at a public meeting of the inhabitants of the said borough at 
the Court Room, on the 7th of April) sold and conveyed to 
them their mill, &c., for £2,633, 4s. 6d.— "To hold and to 
have the said two pieces of lands, houses, mills, mill-ma- 
chinery," &c., &c. 

The following Duplicate exhibits the amount each citizen, 
&c., was taxed towards paying the Landises. The payments 
were made in three annual instalments ; one half of the 
amount assessed was paid in 1794; one half of the balance 
in 1795, and the balance in 1796. For example, a citizen 
taxed £4. had to pay £2. in 1794; £1. in 1795, and £1. 
in 1796. 



HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



241 



AN ESTIMATE 

Of the proportion of each citizen of Harrishurg to purchase 
the Mill belonging to 'the Landis family, in order with 
divine favor, to restore the Borough to its former state 
of health and prosperity. 



Awl Jacob, Exec, £ 15 

Allen Jacob 4 

Allen George 4 

Allen Joseph 4 

Alcorn James 1 

Armstrong Andrew 14 

Abbott's house 2 

Bener John 4 

Bennet Thomas 2 

Boyd John 2 

Boyd Adam 23 

Bucher Jacob 6 

Bruner Henry 6 

Brindle Philip 7 

Boyd Widow 5 

Bader Henry 7 

Bombauch Conrad 20 

Berryhill Alexander 12 

Bolinger Widow 1 

Bombach John 1 
Bleymire John 

Beatty Gawin 1 

Barr Alexander 7 

Brooks James 8 
Berryhill Alexander, sr. 

Berryhill Samuel 3 

Baker Peter 3 
Burmister Charles 

Brooks John 7 

Beatty James 12 

Balzly John 9 

Bennage Lawrence 4 

Barr Robert 4 



00 Brua Peter 

00 Clark Widow 

16 Crabb William 

4 Conrad Henry 

4 Cummins John 

12 Chambers John Exe. 

14 Carson William 

2 Clunie James Exe. 

4 Cassel George 

14 Cairns James 

2 Comfort John 

14 Culp Mark 

6 Degar Jacob 

12 Duncan James 

8 Downey Charles 

4 Denning Peter Exec. 

4 Davis Samuel B 

12 Drawly John 

16 Dentzel John 

4 Dickey W^illiara 
Dickey Thomas 

00 Ebright Jacob 

4 Elder John 

00 Earnest John 

16 Ebbert John 

14 Eiteneyer Widow 

00 Elliot James 

Ensminger Michael 

16 Elder Joshua 

00 Fisher George 

12 Fulton Henry 

lO Fenton Benjamin 

4 Feger John 
21 



6 


6 


1 


4 


4 


8 


10 


16 


1 


4 


1 


10 


1 


4 


17 00 


3 00 




12 


6 


18 


2 


8 


2 00 


20 


14 


2 


8 


6 


00 


2 


16 


2 


16 


5 00 


1 


4 


2 00 


16 


10 


4 16 


3 


00 


11 


16 


1 


4 


2 


8 


1 


16 


45 00 


40 


00 


16 


16 


6 


12 


1 


16 



242 



HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



Feder John 
File John 

Fridley G & Barney 
Ford Henry 
Firestone George 
Forrest Andrew 
Fogelsanger John 
Foster Thomas 
Graydon Alexander 
Gregg Thomas 
Greiger Barnhart 
Greenawalt Christian 
Gilmore Moses 
Gillum John 
Gibson Ruben 
Glass William 
Graybil Peter 
Graydon William 
Girt Frederick 
Galbreath John 
Greegor Martin 
Hess George 
Horning Stephen 
Hamilton Widow 
Hamilton John Exec. 
Hoge John 
Hocker John 
Horter Valentine 
Hoyer George 
Hume John 
Hocker Adam 
Hocker Christopher 
Hilligas Conrad 
Hill Samuel 
Heafly John 
Heis John 
Hutman Mathias 
Hartman George 
Hatz George 
House Joseph 
Heaning Jacob 
Holstein George 



4 10 
2 8 


Horning Conrad 
Irwin Robert 


12 00 

7 4 


Issett Henry 
Ingram William 


7 4 


Irwin & Howard 


6 18 


Kaup William 


6 00 


Kunkle Christian 


14 8 


Krause John & And 


18 00 


Kunkle Peter 


6 12 


Kreamer John 


4 4 


Kapp Michael 


4 10 


Kean John 


12 12 


Kurtz Benjamin 


6 14 


Knatcher Michael 


2 4 
4 16 


Kapp Michael jr 
King Charlotte 


6 14 


Koftinan Andrew 


4 16 


Klickner Frederick 


3 00 


Luther John 


1 00 


LafFery Justinia 


2 4 


Lever Nicholas 


7 00 

5 12 

16 16 

36 18 


Lawyer Adam 
Liphart Henry 
Lever George 
Little's house 


9 00 


McCart Robert 


16 4 


MaChemay John 


7 4 

23 14 

4 10 


Murry William 
McCarty Benja. 
Mish Jacob 


13 10 


Maclay John 


13 10 
3 00 


Mooney Abraham 
McManus Patrick 


10 00 


McLaughlin Alex. 


3 6 


Murray Patrick 


10 00 

2 8 


Mytinger Lewis 
Mitchel James 


2 14 

3 S 


Murphy Barny 
Miller John 


2 00 


Morse Moses 


9 00 
9 00 


Montgomery Alex. 
Miller Jacob 



2 


8 


20 


8 


6 


18 


3 


8 


12 


00 


1 


00 


22 


18 


10 


4 


1 


6 


4 00 


18 00 


11 


4 


3 


00 


2 


14 


6 


00 


1 


4 


9 


00 


1 


00 


19 


16 


1 


16 


7 


16 


1 


4 


3 00 


2 


8 


3 00 


1 


4 


5 


8 


3 


12 


2 


16 


15 


18 


3 


12 


1 


16 


2 


8 


1 


00 


1 


16 


1 


4 


7 


4 




18 


12 


00 


2 


8 


2 


4 


2 


00 



HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



243 



Moore Thomas 
Montgomery Joseph 
Martin J & Thomas 
Mackey James 
Miller Charles 
McAlister Archibald 
McCaslin John 
Newman John 
Norton John 
Newman Nicholas 
Newman Andrew 
Ott Nicholas 
Petry Henry 
Peffer George 
Peifer John 
Potts Stacy 
Poat Joseph 
Patterson Galbreath* 
Pool John 
Pancake Valentine 
Pancake George 
Patterson Robert 
Pool^John jr 
Pfleager Frederick 
Porter William 
Peters Michael 
Rymuth Philip 
Ritezei Jacob 
Reel Anthony 
Reel Philip ' 
Ritz John 
Romjeau John 
Riehm Andrew 
Redding George 
Reamer's Executors 
RothrofF Henry 
Saur Charles 
Snyder Simon 
Stoehr's house 
Sweeny Major 
Stehly, Widow 



3 00 

15 00 

5 14 



16 

12 

4 

2 

2 



15 00 
2 18 
2 18 

10 00 

1 4 
9 00 

2 00 
6 00 

10 16 



1 
3 

2 
2 
6 
5 
3 
2 
12 










16 




10 16 



18 
6 

10 
4 

18 



6 18 
3 



12 
6 
8 



12 



Seez Balthazer 


4 4 


Seez Christopher 


7 16 


Stephen Hugh 


2 4 


Smith Nicholas 


18 


Smith Casper 


9 


Sweigart Daniel 


2 14 


Shoch John 


1 10 


Smith's Miss. 


5 2 


Shields John 


1 4 


Scarlet David 


1 10 


Sawyer James 


6 18 


Shrom Jacob 


2 14 


Saur's Casper house 


2 16 


Syfert Anthony 


3 12 


Sheets John 


1 


Smith Widow 


1 4 


Snyder Adam 


1 10 


Sayler Henry 


4 16 


Syboth Tobias 


9 


Snyder John 


2 8 


Sealy John 


15 


Staugh & Voglesanger 1 4 


Tresen: ider Conrad 


8 


Ungar Peter 


2 4 


UpdegrafF Abraham 


18 


Whitehill George 


4 10 


Willson William 


7 4 


Wain Jacob 


1 


Walter Peter 


8 2 


Whitehill Robert 


2 14 


Wickersham Hannah 


6 4 


Wear Samuel 


4 


Weatherhold widow 




and George 


6 


Wingert widow 


8 8 


Welchhance Jacob 


7 4 


Waltz George 


2 4 


Weathrup John 


3 


V/a Iters Christopher 


2 4 


Wingert Simon 


2 


Wilson John 


1 4 



Subscribed £20. 



244 



HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



Wallace Benjamin 10 

Wilhelm Jacob 2 8 

Wyeth John 2 8 

Williams Vincent 1 4 
Williams Christopher 2 

Youse Jacob 2 8 

Youse Frederick 2 14 

Youse George 6 

Young Robert 1 4 

Zolinger Jacob 14 14 

Zinn John 10 
Zeigler Geo carpenter 15 

Ziegler George 2 

Zerver Frederick 2 

SINGLE MEN. 

Thomas Elder 6 

Samuel Leard 6 

Andrew Mitchel 6 

John Patterson 6 

Doctor Spangler 6 

Joseph Wageline 6 

William Wallace 6 

Jacob Bener 3 12 

Adam Brady 3 12 

Jacob Burkhart 3 12 

John Burkenbine 3 12 

Jacob Bretz 3 12 

Jacob Feger 3 12 

Jacob Glass 3 12 

Robert Hunter 3 12 

Philip Horing 3 12 

George Hacker 3 12 

Bryan Hooper 3 12 

John Irwin 6 

Michael Krehl 3 12 

Anthony Leyer 3 12 

Peter Reitzel 3 12 

James Shaw 3 12 

William Wanless 3 12 

William Martin 3 12 

William Brown 3 12 

Michael Kuntz 2 8 



John Lehr 2 8 

Duncan McGachin 2 8 

James Elliot 2 8 

John Over 2 8 

James Simpson 2 8 

JohnUmholtz 2 8 

John Weaver 2 8 

William Porter 2 8 

Wlliam Irwin 2 8 

Mathias Henderson 6 

FOR LOTS OF GROUND. 

Thomas Forsler 1 16 

Thomas Murray 1 16 

Samuel Wier 1 16 

Moses Gilmore 1 16 

John Elbert 1 16 

Henry Bruner 1 4 

George Hoyer 2 8 

Christian Kunkle 1 

Michael Kapp 1 

George Reddich 1 

Wm Maclay's land 

within the borough 
Peter Lyeth 
Edward Burk's house 
W^ear's our house 
John Wear's house 
Alexander Miller 
Peter Pancake 
James Ross 
Ritezel's house 
Harris' Executors ) 
Snyder's house j 
Mengel's Exect 
Shouffier for 

Shoch's house 5 8 
Henry Issets tor 

Smith's house 3 12 
Conrad Bombaugh for 

Seyffort's house 9 6 
Brindle& Montgomejy 4 10 
Haller's house 6 



10 
10 
12 

14 

20 



16 
8 




12 

4 



Robert Hill 


1 16 


Casper Smith 


1 ]6 


John Boyd 


10 4 


Thomas Grey 


8 2 


Leys 


10 16 


Rody Fraizier 


6 


William Glass 


1 18 


LANDLORDS WHO DO NOT LIVE 


IN TOWN, OR IN OTHER HOUSES 


Martin Gregor 


£2 


Margaret Bolinger 


* 2 


Mar. Stiller 


3 4 


Chamber's Executors 


4 16 


William Wallace 


7 4 


Andrew Stewart 


6 8 


Henry Sailor 


1 


Humes James 


5 12 


John Steinmetz 


12 



HISTORY OP DAUPHIN COUNTY. 245 

Joshua Elder 22 10 

Col Shouffler 16 4 

Michael Kapp 15 

Samuel Berryhill 3 

Edward Lynch 8 4 

Samuel Grimes 18 

Widow Witherold 18 

Joseph Dritt 7 16 

Tobias Seyboth 3 

Welshoffer 5 8 

County of Dauphin 72 

Bricker's house 8 8 

Dr. Fahnestsck 8 14 

Fred. Youse 9 6 
Rev Nathaniel Snowden6 

Rev Shaffer's house 8 

Rev. Hautz 8 



Mr. Graydon, m his Memoirs, alludes to this sickness and 
consequent great mortality, caused by the mill pond, speak- 
ing of the pestilential yellow fever that raged at Philadel- 
phia : "Measures were taken, says he, in almost everv town 
and village to prohibit the entry of persons suspected of in- 
fection; and even fugitives from the seat of it, though in 
health, were regarded with a jealous eye. Some of the peo- 
ple of Harrisburg were for following the example of their 
neighbors, though a malady not less fatal than that in Phil- 
adelphia, was raging among themselves. But the difference 
was, that one was called a plague, the other but a simple 
lever. It is somewhat remarkable, that if the yellow fever 
IS of foreign origin as insisted upon by many, that a disease 
ot a similar type, should make its appearance at the same 
time on the banks of the Susquehanna, at the distance of an 
hundred rades. Shall we say, that the state of the atmo- 
sphere which generated the one, was favorable to the diffu- 
sion of the other ? This, I believe, is the doctrine of those 
who contend that the yellow fever is of exotic growth, and 
always imparted when it appears among us: I would venture 
however, no opinion on the subject. With respect to the 
mortality produced by the two diseases, that at Harrisburg 
was, I believe, in proportion to the population of the place' 

21* 



246 HISTORY Of dauphin county, 

as great as that at Philadelphia. I cannot take upon me mi- 
nutely to describe the symptoms of the Harrisburg disease, 
nor were they the same in all that were sick, but a general 
one was, an affection of the stomach, or nausea with violent 
reachings and a yellowness of the skin. Some were ill a week, 
some longer, some died in two or three days from the time of 
their being seized, and others who were walking about with 
symptoms only of the ague, suddenly took ill and expired. 
The black vomit, which has sometimes been supposed pecu- 
liar to the yellow fever, appeared in some cases. I was at- 
tacked with a quartan ague about the middle of September, 
but had none of the grievous symptoms of the malignant fe- 
ver which prevailed. 

" The matter which produces agues, i. e. miasmata, caus- 
ed by vapors from low and marshy situations and waters, 
rendered baneful from certain adventitious circumstances, may 
be pronounced to be the support or aliment of all diseases, 
more particularly of the latter perhaps, when the exhalations 
are rendered more than commonly noxious from the general 
state of the atmosphere, — this cause existed at Harrisburg. 
A mill dam had been erected the season before on the Pax- 
ton ; rather a turbid and sluggish stream, within five or six 
hundred yards of the middle of the town on its eastern side. 
The obstruction must have spread the water over a surface 
of from eight to ten acres ; and this co-operating with a state 
of the atmosphere unusually morbid this season in such situ- 
ations, may fully account for the fear which prevailed. 

" In the fall of the year 1792, there were some cases of it, 
and still more in that of 1794, equally malignant; after which 
the mill dam was removed. I have been the more particular 
on this subject, though without being able to offer any thing 
satisfactory, from knowing it to have been a matter of some 
interest with the physicians of Philadelphia to ascertain the 
nature of the Harrisburg disease, thence to deduce data to- 
wards the solution of the question whether the yellow fever, 
as appearing in our cities, be, or not, a malady of exclusively 
foreign origin." 



CHAPTER XVIII. 

Harris' Ferry. 

It is thought William Penn visited John Harris — Penn's proposals for 
a second settlement on Susquehanna river — Road from Harris' lerry, 
&c. — Indians leave their canoes at Harris' Ferry — Harris' or^Paxton 
a public place — Conrad Weiser writes from Paxion, Nov. 28, 1747 
touching public business — Half-King arrives here, sickens, dies, buri- 
ed, «fcc. — Harris' letters touching Half-King's death, &c. — Notice of 
Monacatootha, &c. — Harris writes to Edward Shippen — Company of 
soldiers raised — Conrad Weiser at Harris' Sept. 1755 — Gov. nor, 
Hamilton at Harris' in 1755— Harris' letter to R. Peters, 1755 — Har- 
ris cuts loop-holes in his house ; erects a stoccade around his old 
house; Ed. Shippen mentions it in a letter April 17, 1756— Conrad 
Weiser at Harris' Dec. 1755, and held a council, &c. — The Revd. 
Barton writGs from Harris' — Harris continued a guard, &c. — Harris 
recommended the use of batteaux in preference to canoes, on the 
river — Gov. Morris had an interview with some Indians at Harris', 
January 1756— Conrad Weiser at Harris', January 1756 ; his letter 
touching his meeting Belt in his cabin, and interview with some 
Indians, &c. — Governor Morris at Harris' in May 1756, where he 
signed several bills, acts, &c. — Fort at Harris'— George Croghan at 
Harris', in January 1757 — Present at a meeting of the Six Nation 
Indians and their allies, April 1757 — Refugees from Wyoming at 
Harris', July 1778— Matthew Smith's letter. 

This chapter, composed of miscellaneous facts, " made up 
of shreds and patches," presented in chronological order, is 
intended as a continuatim of some things mentioned in the 
preceding chapter. The facts and incidents noticed, in this 
connection, had happened before Harrisburg was laid out. — 
Those paragraphs marked with a W, have been taken from 
Watson's Annals. •. ^ 

Robert Harris thinks that John Harris (R's grandfather) 
saw William Penn here, or at Conois creek ; he had always 



248 HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 

heard that he (William Penn) visited hira on the Susquehan- 
na ; and that he did much business for Penn's interest, and 
even talked of buying lands of hira, over on the other side 
down to the Yellow Breeches creek. 

Watson says that Mr. Harris and Miss Say, afterwards 
Mrs. Harris, were both born in Yorkshire, England, and 
came out to Philadelphia as first emigrants with William 
Penn. 

Whether William Penn and John Harris came together to 
Conois creek, is not to be decided with certainty. It might 
be. In 1690, William Penn issued proposals for a second 
settlement or city in the Provinee upon Susquehanna river. 

" It is now, says William Penn, my purpose to make 
another settlement, upon the river Susquehanna, that runs 
into the Chesapeake, and bears about fifty miles west from 
the Delaware, as appears by the common maps of the Eng- 
lish dominion in America. There I design to lay out a plan 
for building another city, in the most convenient place for 
the communication with the former plantations in the east : 
which by land is as good as done already, a way being laid 
out between the two rivers, very exactly and conveniently, 
at least three years ago ; and which will not be hard to do 
by water, by benefit of the river Scoulkill ; for a Branch of 
that river lies near the Branch that runs into the Susque- 
hannagh river, and is the common course of the Indians 
with their skins and furrs into our parts, and to the provinces 
east and west Jersey and New York, from west and north- 
west parts of the continent from whence they bring them." 

The road from John Harris' on the Susquehanna, in or 
near Paxton, towards Philadelphia, by wayof Lancaster and 
Chester counties, was procured, in 1736, by petition of sun- 
dry inhabitants in said counties. 

In 1742, a party of Indians, consisting of twenty-one On- 
ondagoes and seven Oniedas, under the command of a cap- 
tain of the former nation, made an excursion against the 
Tallapoosas, resident in Virginia, and on arriving at Harris' 
Ferry they left their canoes here, and, procuring a pass, or 
letter of protection from a magistrate of Lancaster county, 
travelled peaceably through the province, obtaining provi- 
sions from the inhabitants. (Gordon's Pa. 245.) They ob- 
tained this pass from Jonathan Hoge (now Cumberland co.) 
through which they passed, in Virginia. — Compiler, 



HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTy. 249 

Harris' or Paxton, was repeatedly frequented by the In- 
dians, Indian agents, &c., for the transaction of public bu- 
siness. Conrad Weiser, a distinguished Indian Agent, &c., 
from 1730, the year he arrived in Pennsylvania, till 1760, 
when he died, visited Harris' Ferry, repeatedly to transact bu- 
siness with the Indians and others. 

Paxtow, Nov. 28, 1747. 
To Richard Peters, Esq. 
Sir: 

Last night I arrived here with the Indians, all in good health but 
Canachquasy, the speaker, who took sick by the way to my house, and 
one of the women, but I hope not dangerously. 

This day I delivered the goods to them, and they are well pleased for 
my adding two half barrels of powder to the four which they were to 
have. George Croghan was present, and he undertook to find men and 
horses to carry the powder and the lead with two casks of liquor for 
them to Ohio. I was obliged to allow ihem the liquor, because they 
all followed my advice, and did not get drunk, neither in town (Phila- 
delphia) nor by the way. 

Scaiohady, after they had received the goods, spoke to me in the fol- 
lowing manner : 

Brother: — 

I am very glai that our brethren in Philadelphia took into their 
serious consideration what we have said to them. The French parly 
is very strong among us, and if we had failed in our journey to Phila- 
delphia, or our expectations would not have been granted by our breth- 
ren in Philadelphia, the Indians would have gone over to the French to 
a man, and would have received presents (or supplies) from the 
French, who have offered it; but now I hope we have got the better of 
them. Let me desire, you to set out early in the spring with the 
supplies our brethren have been pleased to promise us, and send some- 
body before you, to give us timely notice, that we may meet, for we are 
scattered up and down the country, and we will send three or four men 
to meet you by the way, and to convey you to the place appointed. 

Pray don't miss, and let us, that are for our brethren the English, not 
be ashamed ; the French party who speak now under ground will speak 
above the ground, if you should miss, but if you arrive early in the 
spring, all the Indians will unite heartily, and the French party will be 
brought over to us." 

Then he spoke to George Croghan and me, who must be my guide. 
I made answer that nothing should be wanting that I could do, and if I 
was alive and well, I hoped to see them in their country next spring 
before the grass comes out, or at farthest when they begin to plant 
their corn. 

Scaiohady pressed upon me to put the government in mind of what 
he had said against the traders in rum, that it might be suppressed ; 
for the Indians, said he, will drink away all they have, and not be able 
to do any thing against the enemy for want of ammunition ; and if 



250 



HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



rightly considered, death without judge or jury, to any man that carries 
rum to sell to any Indian town, is the only iremedy to prevent that 
trade ; and a just reward to the traders, for nothing else will do. It 
is an abomination before God and man, to say nothing of the partic 
ular consequences: it is altogether hurtful to the public, for what lit- 
tle supplies we can give them to carry on the war is not half sufficient, 
thev must buy the greatest part with their hunting, and if they meet 
with rum, they will buy that before any thing; and not only drink away 
their skins, but their clothing, and even every thing they may get of us; 
in short, the inconveniences occasioned by that trade are numerous at 
this very time, the English and French party will fall out in their 
drunkenness and murder- one another, and the English will be chajged 
with the mischief thereof. I must leave off before I wear out your 
patience. 

Sir, 
Your very dutiful, 

Conrad Weiskh. 
P. S. Scaiohady told Shikalamy at my house, very privately, that Pe- 
ter Chartier and his company had accepted of the French hatchet, but 
kept it in their bosom, till they would see what interest they could 
make in favor of the French. 

Kalf-Hing, of whom frequent mention is made in the 
Provincial Records and Votes of Assembly, arrived sick at 
John H arris', the 1st of October, 1754, and died on the 
night of the 4th, and was buried by John Harris. During^ 
Half-King's sliort illness, the Indians present sent for a con- 
juror to inquire into the cause of his sickness and death — 
they believed the French had bewitched him. 

John Harris wrote the following letter to Governor Ham- 
ilton, on the death of Half-King : 

Paxton, October 2, 1754. 
May it Please your Honor: 

At the earnest request of Monacatootha, one of the Chiefs of the 
Six Nations, I take this opportunity to inform your Honor of the 
death of Half-King, who departed this life last night. There are about 
twenty Indians here, who wait to see him buried, and then intend for 
Aughwick immediately; he likewise desired that the melancholy news 
might be forwarded with all possible despatch, to his Honor, the 
Governor of Virginia. Those Indians that are here, blame the Freneh 
for his death by bewitching him, as they had a conjurer* to inquire 
into the cause a few days before he died; and it is his opinion, toge- 
ther vviih his relations, that the French had been the cause of this 
great man's death, by reason of his striking them lately, for which 
they seem to threaten immediate revenge, and desired me to let it ba 
known. 

All the Indians that are here are in great trouble, especially his rela- 

• Conjuror. See Appendix G. ' - 



HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 251 

tions. I have sent an account to Conrad Weiser, at Shamoliin, this 
day, who I expect will be down upon notice. I humbly presume, 
that his is a very great loss, especially at this critical time. 
I am 
Your Honor's most obedient 
And most humble servant, 

John Harris. 

Jfote. — Half-King also called Tanachrisson was a man of 
much note among the Indians. He had his residence at 
Loggs Town, on the Ohio, fourteen miles below Pittsburg 
on the opposite side. George Washington visited him in 
1753. When Washington first called at his cabin, Half- 
King had been out at his hunting cabin, on Little Beaver 
creek, about fifteen miles off. As soon as he returned from 
his hunting place, Washington invited him privately into his 
tent, and desired him to relate some of the particulars of a 
journey he had shortly before made to the French com- 
mandent. He gave him the particulars as to the best way 
of going to the French commandent ; and also informed him 
that he, Half-King, had met with a cold reception ; that the 
French officer sternly ordered him to declare his business. 

In a treaty held at Carlisle, with Indians, Belt alludes to 
this cold reception — See Appendix L. and a note appended, 
where Belt speaks of Half-King's interview with the French 
commandent. 

JVIr. Harris enquired of Manacatootha, one of the Chiefs 
of the Six Nations, and others present, where they chused 
to bury him, and in what manner. They answered, that he 
might bury him as he thought proper, which Harris did, 
much to their satisfaction. The Government allowed Har- 
ris for his expenses and trouble in burying Half-King. 

John Harris wrote the following letter afterwards to Rich- 
ard Peters, Secretary, while at Philadelphia : 

Philadelphia, Oct. 29, 1754. 

Sir— 

On the first of this instant, Monacatootha, and several others, the 
chiefs of the Six Nations, came to my house, and brought fthe 
Half-King and his family along with them, who were, in general, in a 
very low condition, particularly himself, who died in a few days ; af- 
ter which I asked Monacatootha* and others, where they chused to 

• Monacatootha was an Indian of some note. Washington, in his 
expedition to the French on the Ohio, in 1753, called to see him, at 



252 HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 

bury him andlin what manner, or if they wanted nny thing necessary 
for his funeral 1 Their answer was, that they looked upon him to be 
like one of ourselves, and as he died amongst us, we might bury him 
as we thought proper ; that if he was buried well, it would be very 
good — which I did, much to their satisfaction. 

Immediately after, Monacatootha and the chiefs set off for Augh- 
wick, leaving the Half-King's family and relations under my care, say- 
ing that in some short time there should some horses and Indians come 
down for them, which they had not yet done, and I have been at ex- 
penses for their provisions and his funeral. My account I shall send 
down, which I hope you will be pleased to lay before the Assembly. — 
I shall continue to give his family provisions till they remove, and 
should be satisfied how soon that might be. I conclude, 
Sir, your most obedient and 

most humble servant, 

JoHX Harris. 

December 17, Post Meridian, 1754. The Committtee of 
Accounts reported a balance of ten pounds, fifteen shillings 
and four pence, due to the said John Harris, for his expenses, 
and five pounds for his trouble, &c., in burying the Half- 
King, and maintaining sundy Indians that were with him. — 
Votes of Assem. iv. 342. 

Half-King's family was still at Harris', at the close of De- 
cember. In a letter addressed by Andrew Montour to Rich- 
ard Peters, dated at Paxton, December 30, 1754, he makes 
mention of this fact : 

Sir — I design to-morrow to march with my men, raised 
here, for Willis' creek, by way of Aughwick. I leave under 
theicare of John Harris, two Indian families, one of which 
has been at his house since the death of Plalf-King, and has 
been so kindly treated that they don't care to move to Augh- 
wick at this cold season, and they may be as cheap main- 
tained here. 

Logstown. "As soon as I came into town," says Washington, "I went 
to Monacatootha, as the Half-King was out at his hunting cabin, on 
Little Beaver Creek, about 15 miles oiT, and informed by John David- 
son, my Indian interpreter, that I was sent a messenger to the French 
general, and was ordered to call upon the sachems of the Six Nations 
to acquaint them with it. I gave him a string of wampum and a twist 
of tobacco, and desired him to send for the Half-King, which he prom- 
ised to do by a runner in the morning, and for other sachems. I invit- 
ed him and the other great men to my tent, where they staid about an 
hour, and returned. 



HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 253 

John Harris writes to Edward Shippen at Lancaster. 

Paxton, December 28, 1754. 
Sir : 

This week Captain Andrew Montour has made his interest so good 
with my brother William Harris, as to persuade him to go with him 
to our camp, and he engages that he shall receive a Lieutenant's 
command under him, upon the strength of which, and the willing- 
ness to serve his king and country, he resolves lo go. Their com- 
pany of white men I expect to have completed by Monday next or 
day following, ihey expect to march for Wills' creek by the way of 
Aughwick, in order to take a number of Indians with them ; some 
Indians that are here leave their families and set off with them 
with all cheertulness : and I'll assure you, upon my brother's in- 
clining to go, the young men about here enlisted immediately, with 
the small encouragement I gave them, which was but my duty, and 
I hope that this company will act their part so well as to be a cre- 
dit to our River Men, of which almost the whole consists. It is 
rumored here that there are now taken prisoners lately at our Camp, 
fifteen French Indians, upon what I hear our Indians at Aughwick 
are to go and determine their fate, either death or liberty. I only 
mention this, but am not yet certain of the fact. 

[Excuse blunders.] 

I am sir, 

Your very humble servant, 

John Harris. 

Letter to Richard Peters from Captain Andrew Montour. 

Paxton, December 30th, 1754. 
Sir: 

I design, to-morrow, to march with my men raised here for Will's 
creek by the way of Aughwick. I leave under the care of John 
Harris two Indian families, one of which has been at his house 
since the death of Half-King, and has been so kindly treated that 
they don't care to move to Aughwick at this cold season, and they 
may be as cheap maimained here. I ordered John Harris to provide 
for them after the frugalest manner. All the men of the aforesaid In- 
dian families go to the camp with me cheerfully, and are of the Min- 
goes, and were at the skirmish when Laforce was taken and his men. 
I expect to take a number of Indians along with me from Aughwick to 
the camp, where I design to be with them. I'll assure you, John Har- 
ris's kind usage to the Indians this fall has been of much service, and 
ought to be properly recorded. I hope Monacatootha has before this 
time left your city on his way for the Six Nations. The good accounts 
from England lately will spirit up our Indians much, and I trust have 
its desired effect. 

I am, sir. 
Your most obedient 

And humble servant. 

In September, 1755, Conrad Weiser, in his letter to the 
Governor, states, that on the 7th inst., he went by orders to 

22 



254 HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 

meet the Indians at John Harris' ferry. He found several 
had gone up the river to settle about Shamokin. He found 
there, however, " the Belt" and Seneca George, and five or 
six other elderly men, and fifty or sixty others. The Belt 
said the Six Nations were now resolved to revenge the death 
of Braddock, and drive away the French, " which the great 
general could not do, because of pride and obstinacy, and for 
which the Most High had thus punished him." 

Mr. Hamilton informed the council, that in Novem. 1755, 
he was at John Harris', and finding the people there collect- 
ed in the utmost confusion, and in continual fear of being 
fallen upon by a large body of French and Indians, who were 
said to have passed the Alleghany hills, in their march to- 
wards this province, he was induced to offer a great reward 
to (Aroas) Silver Heels, to go up the east side of Susquehan- 
na, as far as Shamokin, to ascertain the facts in the case, 
and he being since returned and now present, was asked to 
relate the facts of his journey. He had gone as far as Nes- 
copecka where he found one hundred and forty warriors in 
their dance, and expressed much anger against the English, 
and an intention to fall upon them to the eastward. — Wat- 
son''s Annals. 

Paxton, October 28th, 1755. 1 
Sir: 

I received your letter, and shall observe the contents. Here is 
melancholy news, which I have wrote to his Honor, our Governor. 
If there was encouragement lor 1000 or 1500 men to meet the ene- 
my, and build a fort up Susquehannah, I imagine a number of men 
will go at their own expense to assist. 
I am sir, 

Your most humble servant, 

John Harris. 

P. S. I shall endeavor to keep out a few Mohawks that are here, as 
spies. The Belt of Wampum promised to cend out some ; but it was 
our river Indians and some scouts from the French army, attacked us 
at Penn's creek. 

Yours, J. H. 

In a letter, dated October 29, 1755, he says, I have this 
day cut loop-holes in my house, and am determined to hold 
out to the last extremity, if I can get some men to stand 
by me. 

John Harris erected a block-house and stoccade during 
the French and Indian war, at Harris' Ferry. Robert Har- 



HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 255 

ris, now living, saw the remains of the block-house and stoc- 
cade when he was young. 

"Robert Harris' grandfather had a stoccade round his old 
house (in front of the present one). There an Indian came 
in with his gun, and fired upon the British officer therein ;* 
his gun flashed. His grandmother, there then, blew out the 
candle for concealment. This was in the log-house, before 
the present residence. — IV. 

"Edward Shippen, in writing to Governor Morris, under 
date of April 19, 1756, says, John Harris has built an excel- 
lent stoccade around his house, which is the only place of 
security that way, for the provisions of the army, he having 
much good cellar room, and as he has but six or seven men 
to guard it, if the government would order six men more 
there to strengthen it, it would, in my opinion, be of great 
use to the cause, even were no provisions to be stored there 
at all — though there is no room for scarce any in Captain 
McKee's fort. 

"The first old log-house was gone before Robert Harris was 
born : he was born in the present stone house in 1768. 

"Robert Harris' grandmother rode once, on urgency, to 
Philadelphia, the same horse, in one day ! At one time, when 
at Big Island,! on trade, and hearing of her husband's ill- 
ness, she came down in a day and a night, in a bark canoe. 
— Watson's Annals. 

To Governor Morris. 

Heidelberg, Berks co. Dec. 22, 1755. 
Honored Sir : 

Last night I arrived from John Harris's Ferry, and herewith in- 
form 3'ou that I did not reach my house in Heidelberg till the 14th inst. 
I sat out on the 16th for Harris's Ferry, where I found no Indians but 
the Old Belt and another Sinecker, called commonly " Broken Thigh," 
a lame man. 

Their young men, about six or seven in number, being sent out by 
John Harris, to fetch scalps from Ohio, but stopt at Aughwick by Mr. 
Croghaa. I sent for Thomas McKee, John Carson and Samuel Hun- 

* Perhaps Watson alludes to the following : 

We hear, says the editor of the Pennsylvania Gazette, July 20, 1758, 
from Harris' ferry that on Sunday night last, as Mr. Harris and some 
people were sitting in a room, a gun was attempted to be fired at them 
through a loop-hole, but luckily it happened not to go off, upoa which 
the neighborhood was alarmed by some guns from the fort, and the 
next morning the track of an Indian was seen. 

f On the West Branch of the Susquehanna river. 



256 



HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



ter to John Harris's, to consult with them how to send yonr Honor's 
message to the Indians on the West Branch of the Susquehanna. They 
recommended one Hugh Crawford to me, on whom I prevailed to go 
to Aughwick with the message, and from there send Indians to the W. 
Branch of Susquehanna with it; and if the Indians thought it advisa- 
ble, to go with them and conduct them down the river, either himself 
or James Patterson, who is to go along with him to Aughwick. 

I had the two old Indians in council with me. They received the 
message from me and Hugh Crawford; the wampum I gave and neces- 
saries for them, and the written invitation from me, in presence of the 
above named gentlemen. I hope he will go through with it. 

Upon my first arrival at John Harris's, I gave a string of wampum 
to the two old Indians above mentioned, requesting them to look upon 
me as a public messenger from their Brother Onas, and desired them 
in his behalf to let me know all that they knew about this war, and who 
it was that murdered Onas' people 1 And for what reason 1 

Next morning they made answer to the following purport: 
Brother : 

We are very glad to see you here once more at these troublesome 
times. We look upon you here as our Brother Onas' messenger as we 
always did. The author of the murder of the people of Pennsylvania 
is Onontio ; he employs his children for that purpose, and they come 
to this river (Susquehanna) to murder. We are sorry to tell you that 
they have prevailed upon our cousins, the Delawares, living about half 
way from Shamokin to Schantovmno (Wayomack) in a town called Nts- 
copeckon. Those Indians have given their town (in defiance of us their 
uncles) to Onontio's children as a place of their rendezvous, and had 
undertaken to join and guide them the way to the English. That there- 
upon the Shickalamys and others of the Six Nations, fled towards the 
Six Nation country. That a report was spread among the Delawares, 
on that river, that the Pennsylvanians were coming with thousands to 
destroy the Indians on Susquehannah, which had occasioned the Six 
Nation Indians^before named to fly, becausethey would not fight against 
their Brethren, nor against the Indians, and that every thing was in a 
great confusion. 

Honored Sir, 

Your most obedient 

And humble servant,' 

CONHAD WeISEB, 

P. S. Your Honor will have heard by this time that the Paxton peo- 
ple took an enemy Indian on the other side ol the Narrows, above Sa- 
muel Hunter's, and brought him down to Carson's house, where they 
examined him. The Indian begged his life and promised to tell all he 
knew to-morrow morning, but (shocking to me) they shot him in the 
midst of them, scalped him, and threw his body into the river. 

The Old Belt told me, that as a child of Onontio, he deserved to be 
killed; but that he would have been very glad if they had delivered 
him up to the governor, in order to be examined stricter and better. 

Yours &c. 

CoifRAD WkISBH. 

Prov. Rec. N. p. 335-6. 



HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 257 

The Rev. Thomas Barton writes from Paxton to the Governor, as 
follows : 

At 3 o'clock in the morning, Not. 2, 1755. 

I am just come from Carlisle. You may see by the enclosed in what 
a situation I left it. The Great Cove is certainly reduced to ashes. 
Andrew Montour charged Mr. Buchanan last night (at John Harris's) 
to hasten home and remove his wife and children. I suppose by to- 
morrow there will not be one woman or child in town. 

Mr. Hans Hamilton marches this morning with a party of sixty men 
from Carlisle to Shippenstown. Mr. McConaughy came over with me 
to raise reinforcements in order to join Mr. Hamilton immediately. 

I intend this morning to return to Carlisle with a party of men to 
guard that town. The gentlemen there desire me to request your as- 
sistance without delay. 

I am, &c. 

Thomas BARxotr. 

In Dec. 1755, John Harris of Paxton township, in conse- 
quence of instruction from George Croghan, continued a 
guard of thirty-two men upon the frontiers of said township 
for the space of eighteen days. — Votes of Assem. iv. 239. 

Mr. Harris, to carry provisions and men up and down the 
river, for the defence of the frontiers, recommended the use 
of batteaux in preference to the common canoes. He w^rote 
the following letter on this subject to Edward Shippen, at 
Lancaster : 

Paxton, April 17, 1756. 
Sir: 

The canoes that must be employed for the service on our river, are 
in general too small ; therefore, it is absolutely necessary to have a 
small number of battoes (batteaux) immediately made, as they will 
carry a much larger burden, keep but the same number of hands em- 
ployed in working them up the river as out small canoes will, and will 
certainly answer the people better, as the sides will be higher to keep 
out the waves in our falls, many of which will be always to pass thro', 
and in high winds, which may sometimes happen. There will not be 
the least danger of passing up and down this river in a battoe, when 
a canoe must be unloaded or damage her cargo; therefore, as I think 
myself a judge of our river navigation and the most necessary and 
serviceable vessels to be employed in it, I think it my duty to write 
you this letter, and also to inform you that William Chestnut will sup- 
ply you with suitable plank, upon getting directions to make the bat- 
toes ; the boards, I imagine, are not to be sawed after the common 
manner. 

I am, in haste, 

Sir, your most obedient servant, 

John Harris. 

P, S. Be pleased to write me a line, if your Honor may think to say, 
!/'s. J. H. 

22* 



258 HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 

Governor Morris, came from Philadelphia, by way of 
Reading, and arrived at Harris' Ferry, and held a council at 
the house of John Harris, January 8th 1756. Present — the 
Hon. Robert Hunter Morris, Governor James Hamilton, 
Richard Peters, Joseph Fox and Conrad Weiser, interpreter ; 
two Indians of the Six Nations, called '• The Belt of Wam- 
pum," a Seneca ; and " The Broken Thigh," a Mohock. 

The governor finding here only two Indians and their 
families ; he sent for them into council, and spoke as follows : 

Brethren ; 

I am glad to see you and your families in good health. You have 
ever been esteemed our hearty friends, and you show you are really so 
by residing amongst us, at a time when so much mischief is done on 
every side of the Province. 

I sent Mr. Weiser to acquaint you that I had kindled a council fire 
here, and had invited the Indians on Susquehannah to meet me the be- 
ginning of this moon, and that I expected yon would stay here till I 
should come, and afford me your assistance in council. 

I thank you for staying here. You see that agreeable to my mes- 
sage, I come at the time appointed, but I find no other Indians here 
than you two, and indeed, I expect no more, as I believe my messengers 
were prevented going to Wyominkby the ravages of the Indians, which 
began in their neighborhood at the time they were preparing to set out 
on their journey. 
Brethren : 

The public business requires my presence at Carlisle, where I am 
now going, and I invite you to go along with me. If you incline to take 
any of your families with you, I shall readily agree to it, and provide a 
carriage for them and you. 

To this the Belt replied. 
Brethren: 

I thank you for sending for us to council, and for your kind speech. 
What you have said is very agreeable. 
Brethren : 

The sky is dark all around us. The mischief done to you, I consider 
as done to the Six Nations, and am sorry for what has happened, and 
heartily condole with you upon it; but be not disheartened. As the 
public business is committed to you, nothing should be suffered to lie 
on your minds that night, in any wise, impair your judgment, which is 
now more necessary than ever. Let me, therefore, by this string 
entreat you to put away all grief from your heart, and to dry up your 
tears, thatyoU may think and see clearly when you come to council. 

I accept your'invitation, and shall follow you to Carlisle. 

Gave a Strino. 

From the minutes of the treaty or conference held at that 
time, it appears there was but one single house and few con- 
veniences to hold a treaty at Harris' — "Mr. Weiser was 



HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 259 

called in and asked if it might not be better to hold it at 
Carlisle, where all the business of that county could be done 
at the same time, and proper entertainment provided, as well 
for the governor and his company, as for the Indians, should 
they prove numerous." They then went to Carlisle. — See 
Appendix L. for the minutes of the treaty. 

Conrad Weiser wrote from Heidelberg township, Berks county, to 
Governor Morris. 

January 29, 1756, I set out from my house with a hired man, arrived 
at Harris' Ferry the 30th, being rainy weather. Met the Indians that 
evening, acquainted them that I was sent by the governor of Pennsyl- 
vania with a message to them. Next morning was appointed for me 
to deliver it; Aroas being not at home. 

January 31. Early in the morning we met in the Belt's cabin; there 
was present the Belt, Garisdoony, Jagrea, Newcastle. They desired me 
to repeat to them the speech the governor made to them in Carlisle a 
few days ago, laying before me the two belts they received there from 
the governor. I made answer that I could not depend on my memory, 
and that I had no copies of those papers relating to it ; that they must 
excuse me till another opportunity ; however, the principal beads they 
remembered. A messenger was immediately sent for Aroas, who ar- 
rived in a few hours after. 

I then delivered the message from the governor, with the addition 
that I could not leave the place before I saw two of them set off. It was 
immediately agreed that Aroas, by us called Silver Heels, and David, a 
Mohock Indian, should prepare for the journey to Ncskopccka* &c. Ac- 
cordingly, on the second day of February, they setoff in the mornino-, 
being rainy weather ; they desired me to send John Davis and Thomas 
Grimes along with them over Peters' Hill to Robert Armstrong's place, 
now the last settlement, to conduct them safe, which I did ; I sent also a 
string of wampum, all white, to Jonathan and John Shickalamy, and 
his brothers, to invite them to come to my house, if they could be 
found. I gave a written pass to Aroas and David, and ordered them 
to carry a silk handkerchief upon a stick on their return, and that only 
two should come before, and keep the path. The Old Belt gave them 
a long lesson ; they all looked very serious. Aroas said he would be 
back in ten days, or in fifteen at farthest; if not then, we might think 
he was dead. So far as to the message. 

On the 31st of last month, one James Young came over from Tobias 

• Neskopecka was on the Susquehanna, at the mouth of Nescopecka 
creek, Luzerne county, where the Moravians had missionaries labor- 
ing at the time. Von Zeit zu Zeit, says Cranz, thaten die Brueder von 
Bethlehem eine Reise nach Wajonick, Neskopaeko und andere Orte 
ander Susquehannah, besuchten die von ihnen getauftcn, wenn sis 
sich dort auf der Jagd befanden, und predigten denen daselbst woh- 
nenden Indianern, welche auch oft nach Bethlehem zum Besuch kam- 
en, das Evangelium zu hoeren. Cram' Brueder Ges. 580. Loskiel, P. 
ii. p. 151. 



260 HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 

Hendricks, and told me privately, in the presence of John Harris, that 
above fifteen men with arms, came that day to Tobias Hendrick's (now 
Bowman's) in order to come to this side of the river to kill the Indians 
at John Harris', judging them of being guilty, or privy to ihe murder 
committed a few days ago in Shearman's valley ; and that he had much 
ado to slop them, and desired me to take all the care I possibly could. I 
thereupon sent a letter with said Young express to the magistrates and 
principal inhabitants in Carlisle, to desire them to caution the people 
of Cumberland against such imprudent behavior, of which nothing but- 
a general war, with all the Indians, could be the issue. A copy of their 
answer is hereunto annexed. I took for granted what they said, and 
sent immediately another express by James English and Jagrea, now 
called Satacaroyies, to bring the Indians that remained in Carlisle, 
smce the last treaty, away to John Harris' ferry,* there to remain with 
the rest till the governor's order should be known. I wrote to those 
gentlemen to hire a wagon for the Indians, if needful. 

I thought it not prudent to inform the Indians of this affair, but seve- 
ral people that came from over the river knew of it, and the Indiana 
came to hear of it. I had a good deal of trouble to quiet their mind (if 
I did at all). Batacaroyies and Newcastle went to Michael Taeff's that 
night, and Newcastle got in the night light-headed; he looked upon ev- 
ery person as an enemy, and would persuade Satacaroyies to run away 
with him. He himself made off privately next morning, and had not 
been heard of when I left John Harris's, which was on the 2d of Feb- 
ruary in the afternoon. 

Michael Taeffand Satacoroyies declared before now that he had no 
liquor, and I am persuaded Satacoroyies would not have come back so 
sober in the morning as he did, if they had had any liquor. I sent word 
all about to the people to take care of the said Newcast le, if he should 
be seen any where ; he had no arms with him. 

I think it highly necessary that the said Indians should be taken care 
of, deeper within the inhabitants ; for should they suffer by our foolish 
people, we should lose all confidence and honor with the rest of the 
Indians. 

Submitted to his Honor the Governor, his council and the assembly, 
by their faithful Indian interpreter. 

CoJTRAD WeISKK. 

Heidelberg, Feb. 4, 1756. 

During the recess of the Assembly (having adjourned 
April 16, 1756) Robert Hunter Morris, Esq., Governor of 
the Province of Pennsylvania, was at Harris' Ferry in the 
early part of May (1756), issued a message, dated Harris' 
Ferry, May 9, 1756, summoning the members of Assembly 
to convene immediately at Philadelphia ; twenty-three of 
whom met on the 11th May — In the conclusion of his mes- 

• At a conference held with the Indians at Carlisle, January, 1756, 
it was left to the Indians' choice, till a fort had been erected at Shamo- 
kin, to reside at one or other of the forts then building, or at Harris' or 
Conestoga Manor; they made choice of Harris'. See Appendix L. 



HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 261 

sage, the governor says, " The affairs of the frontiers, and 
the particular expedition for building a fort at Shamokin, 
which is of great importance to the province, requiring my 
personal care and attendance here for some time longer, it 
gives me concern that I cannot be at Philadelphia at this 
time ; but you may be assured, I will give all the dispatch 
imaginable to any bills you may propose, which the Secreta- 
ry will send me from time to time by Express." — Votes of 
Assem. iv. 558. 

The governor signed several bills at Harris' Ferry, having 
with him " and affixed the Great Seal to the transcribed co- 
py." While here, he received letters from governor Dinwid- 
die and governor Sharpe, giving an account of the miserable 
situation of their frontiers, and the danger they were in from 
the numbers of Indians and French that had already pene- 
trated as far as Winchester. These letters w^ere laid before 
the Assembly by the Secretary, according to a message da- 
ted Harris' Ferry, May 12, 1756. 

In the conclusion of his message to the Assembly, dated, 
Camp at Harris' Ferry, May 23, 1756, the governor says : 
"I propose to leave this place to-morrow, or on Tuesday at 
farthest, and hope to be with you by the time you can have 
any business prepared to lay before me." — Votes of Assem. 
iv. 561. 

Abm. Smith of Carlisle, writes : 

Carlisle, May 20, 1756. 

Sir— 

On Monday last McConnaughy and myself arrived at Harris' Ferry, 
and delivered the bill to the governor, according to order, together with 
the message of the house ; and the governor was pleased to say, he 
would immediately pass the bill into a law, in our presence. We asked 
if that would do ; he said it would do well enough, and requested that 
we would stay and see him affix the Great Seal to it; and accordingly 
we did stay. 

I am, sir, &c. 

John Smith. 
To Isaac Norris, Esq. 

Votes Assem. iv. 561. 

I have examined a number of letters dated Fort at Harris', one of 
many, directed to Gov. Morris, is given. 

Fort at Harris' July 14, 1756. 
May it please your Honor : 

The Col. has ordered me to go to Fort Halifax, at Armstrong's, to 



262 



HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



take care of the stores there ; but they are all takea up to the Camp at 
Shamokin, only what are left there to maintain that garrison — and if I 
go there it renders me incapable of taking care of the stores now at 
Harris', and hereafter to be sent there, by my being so far distant from 
them ; and by your Honor's warrant, which you gave me, I am to go 
no farther than McKee's store ; but if it be your Honor's pleasure that 
I shall go up there and leave these stores, I am still ready and willing, 
but as it extends farther than my warrant, I wait your Honor's orders. 
I am your Honor's 

humble servant, 

VVm. Gaibheath. 

George Croghan, Esq., Deputy Indian Agent to the Hon. Sir William 
Johnson, writes to Gov. Denny. 

Harris' Ferrt, Jany 25, 1757. 
Sir — 

I have dispatched two of the Conestogoes to Ohio, with messages to 
the Six Nations, Delawares and Shawonese there. The messengers I 
sent to Diahogo are not yet returned, but as this river is now open, I 
suppose they will soon be down ; as soon as they arrive, I will give 
your Honor notice, &c. — Prov. Rec. P. p. 149. 

He writes again to Governor Denny. 

Harris' Ferrt, April 2, 1757. 
Sir — 

Thursday last, the 29ih of March, I got here and found one hundred 
Indians, chiefly Six Nations. The messengers sent to Ohio are not yet 
returned. Teedyuscung was gone to the Seneca country, when these 
set out, and is expected soon in with not less than two hundred In- 
dians, &c.— Prov. Rec. P. p. 196. 

On this occasion Croghan had come to Harris' to attend 
a conference with the Indians. The following are the min- 
utes of their proceedings here. 

"At a meeting of the Six Nations and their allies, and 
George Croghan, Esq,, Deputy agent to the Hon. Sir Wil- 
liam Johnson, Baronet, his Majesty's sole agent and superin- 
tendent of affairs of the Six Nations, their allies and depen- 
dants, and by his special order, at John Harris', the 1st day 
of April, 1757. Present — The Revd. John Elder, Captain 
Thomas M'Kee, Mr. James Armstrong, Mr. Hugh Craw- 
ford, Mr. John Harris, William Prentup, Interpreter. 

Mokawhs; Tihansorea, Connadagaughia, Sogeohanna, 
Peter, with thirty-one others, men, women and children. 

Oneidas; Thomas King, Scarroyady, Tawnaquanagis, 
with thirty otheis, men, women and children. 

Tuscaroras; Reet King, with twenty-six others, men, wo- 
men and children. 



HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



263 



Onondagoes; Ossaratonqua, and his two brothers, with 
eighteen others, men, women and children. 

JVanticokes; Robert White, Joshua, with fourteen more, 
men, women and children. 

Cayugas; Ogarawtawrea, Orranoquare, Jenkasarone, with 
twenty others, men, women and children. 

Delawares, Samuel, Joseph Peepy, Thomas Evans, Jona- 
than, with twenty men, women and children. 

Senecas; George, with eight more, men, women and 
children. 

Connestogoes ; Sahays, Captain John, with twenty-nine 
men. women and children. 

The greater part of the proceedings were at Lancaster — 
the following were at Harris' Ferry. 

Brother : 

You and our brother Onas wisely considered the ancient custom 
of our forefathers, in condoling with us, and mixing your grief with 
ours. And as we make no doubt but some of your wise connections 
are dead, since we were here, and many of our brethren have been 
killed by the evil spirit, we wipe the blood off your council seats, and 
put them in order with this belt of wampum. (Gives a belt.) 
Brother: 

After wiping the blood off your council seats, we, with those few 
skins, wrap up the bones of our brethren that died or were killed by 
the evil spirit, and cover their graves. (Gave a small bundle of skins.) 
Brother: 

We, by this belt of wampum, wipe the tears from your eyes, and 
desire you may mourn no more. (Gave a belt of wampum.) 
Brother : 

We, with this belt of wampum, disperse'the dark clouds, that the 
sun may always shine upon us in friendship ; we heal your heart and 
free your mind from troubles, that we may meet each other in council, 
and brighten the chain of friendship made by our forefathers, and that 
the council fire may burn clear we throw a few chips on it. (Gave 
a belt.) 

This evening I had a meeting of the Sachems, and proposed the go- 
ing to Philadelphia, to hold the treaty ; but I could not prevail on any 
of them to go there, except, the Mohawks, the rest were afraid of 
sickness. 

When I found they wereixot to be prevailed on to go there, I called 
a council, and, with a belt of wampum, I removed the council fire to 
Lancaster: to which place they all agreed to go, and wait the arrival 
of Teedyuscung, with the Senecas, Delawares and Shawanese. Gave 
a belt to remove the council fire to Lancaster. 

April 7, arrived at Lancaster, from John Harris'. 



264 



HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



George Croghan wrote to Governor Denny : 

Harris' Ferry, April 2, 1757. 
Sir- 
Thursday last, the 29th of March, I got here, and found about 160 
Indians. The messengers sent to Ohio are not yet returned, and Tee- 
dyuscung* was gone to the Seneca country when these set out, and is 
expected soon in with no less than 200 Indians* As it is not certain 
whether he will come in at Easton or here, I have sent a messenger 
to Bethlehem to meet him, with a message. 

I have met with some difficulty in removing the Indians from here, 
as many of their chiefs are dead since they had a meeting in this 
Province, and several of their people have been carried off by the 
small pox in Philadelphia. I was obliged to condole with them, which 
ceremony took up three days ; and I have just now prevailed on them 
to set off for Lancaster. They are much afraid of sickness, and say, 
they always lose many of their people in Philadelphia. 

These Indians are in great want of clothes, and I am of opinion that 
they should have some ordered before the general present can be 
given. 

George Croghan. 

A'report prevails that their families were cut off in Conocochege, 
near Colonel Chambers' mill. G. C. 

— Prov. Rec. P. 196-'7. 

In the month of July, 1778, refugees from the Wyoming 
Valley fled from the scene of the dreadful devastation of 
those settlements of murder, and sought protection at Har- 
ris' Ferry. Mr. Smith, in a letter to George Bryan, Esq., 
makes mention of these refugees here, and of the scenes of 
distress : 

Paxtang, July 12ih, 10 o'clock, 1778. 
Sir— 

I am this moment arrived at Harris' Ferry, and just now behold the 
greatest scenes of distress I ever saw, the numerous poor ran away 
from their habitations and left their all, and several families lost, part 
killed and scalped on their retreat; the most cruel butcheries ever 
known are practiced, wounded and others thrown into fires while yet 
living. The Inhabitants, however, are much distressed ; the Wyoming 
people are undoubtedly, by the last accounts, entirely defeated. Nor- 
thumberland county is evacuated. Not more than one hundred men 
with Col. Hunter at Sunbury; the Blue mountain is now the frontier, 
and I am afraid Lancaster county will shortly follow the example of 
the other county. The stores at Carlisle are something very consid- 
erable. I doubt not their object is to destroy that place. I am informed 
there is not that care taken that should be. I think it would be neces- 

• See Appendix H. Teedyuscung. 



HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 265 

sary to appoint some careful officer at that place, that would do the 
duty more punctually. 

This party is large, have Colonel Butler at their head, one hundred 
regular troops at first; about the same number of Tories, but is in- 
creased to two or three times that number; seven hundred Indians, all 
armed in a most formidable manner, every one of them, exclusive of 
guns and tomahawks ; as usual, each one has a large spontoon, and as 
soon as engaged, rushes on in a most dreadful manner. It is said they 
have field pieces, or swivels ; and a number of light horse. 

It is the earnest request of all friends to their country, as well as 
your humble servant, that something shall be done in the greatest haste. 
Be pleased to send an order for what arms are ready at Lancaster and 
Hummelstown, also for ammunition, and I shall exert every nerve in 
forwarding matters to the spot the men shall collect. 
I am 
Your Honor's most obedient 
And most humble servant, 

Matthew Smith.* 



CHAPTER XIX. 



Hasrisburg, at present. 



Situation — Population, males and females — General statistics of — Ar- 
ticles of consumption— Public buildings, viz: court-house, jail, 
school-houses. Masonic Hall, Bank and Savings Institution, Market- 
house, State-house, State Arsenal, Mount Airy Water-works, Bridges, 
— Harrisburg bridge ; a number of interesting incidents, &c. — Edu- 
cation, &c.— Names of papers and editors— History of the churches. 

Harrisburg, a pest town, a borough, the seat of justice of 
Dauphin county, and the Capitol ot the State of Pennsyl- 
vania, is very pleasantly situated on the left or east bank of 
the Susquehanna river, in north latitude 40 degrees, 16 min- 
utes ; east longitude from Washington city, 5 minutes and 30 
seconds, and 76 degrees and 50 minutes west longitude from 
Greenwich, England ; ninety-seven miles from Philadelphia ; 
thirty-five from the city of Lancaster, and one hundred and 

• See Appendix O. Dtvastation of Wyomitig. 

23 



266 HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 

ten from Washington city. It was laid out, as stated above^ 
in 1785, by John Harris, and made the seat of Justice of the 
county. It was then called Harris' Ferry. In 1786, the 
Supreme Executive council named it Louishurg, in honor of 
Louis, XVI. of France. This name, however, was changed 
for Harrishurg, in honor of John Harris, the original found- 
er. In 1810, February 21st, it was by law, established as 
the seat of Government of Pennsylvania, and the public 
offices were removed from Lancaster, where the legislature 
had assembled for many years, October 12, 1812. 

The population was in 1800, 1,472 ; in 1810, 2,287 ; in 
1820, 2,990; in 1830, 4,311; in 1840, 6,020; in 1845, 
6,193, whereof 712 are colored persons. 

Harrisburg in 1840, had 6,020 of population, of the fol- 
lowing ages : White Males, 360 under five years ; 271 of 
five and under ten ; 254 of ten and under fifteen ; 293 of 
fifteen and under twenty ; 664 of twenty and under thirty ; 
390 of thirty and under forty ; 257 of forty and under fifty; 
158 of fifty and under sixty ; 47 of sixty and under seventy; 
14 of seventy and under eighty ; 4 between eighty and 
ninety. White Females, 328 under five ; 278 of five and 
under ten ; 280 of ten and under fiften . 359 of fifteen and 
under twenty ; 629 of twenty and under thirty ; 3l2 of thir- 
ty and under forty ; 213 of forty and under fifty ; 129 of 
fi'fty and under sixty ; 58 of sixty and under seventy ; 25 
between seventy and eighty ; 9 above eighty and under nine- 
ty ; one above ninety. 

Coloured Population : Males, \mder ten, 85 ; ten and un- 
der twenty-four 74; of twenty-four and under thirty-six 81; 
of thirty-six and under fifty-five 44 — twelve above fifty-five. 
Females, 81 under ten ; 105 of ten and under twenty-four ; 
96 of twenty-four and under thirty-six ; 54 of thirty-six and 
under fifty-five ; 14 of fifty-hve and under one hundred ; 
one above a hundred. 

Number of persons variously employed ; one in mining, 
fourteen in agriculture, ninety-six in commerce, six hundred 
and sixty-one in manufactures and trades, one in the naviga- 
tion of the ocean, thirty-four in the navigation of canals and 
rivers, fifty-nine in the leared professions and engineers, two 
revolutionary pensioners, whose husbands performed military 
services, Anna Maria Keefer, then aged seventy, and Justina 
Weiser, aged eighty-two, one blind person, three academies 



HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 267 

and grammar schools) twelve primary schools. Five white 
}>ersons above the age of twenty w^ho could neither read nor 
write. 

There are, according to the census of 1840, three commis- 
sion houses in foreign trade, with a capital of $23,500 ; sev- 
enty-six retail stores, with a capital of $319,860 ; five lum- 
ber yards, capital $25,000 ; six coal and wood yards, capi- 
tal $50,000 ; twenty-five butchers and packers, employing a 
capital of $8,800 ; the manufacture of caps and bonnets, 
employed a capital of $70 "0 ; of leather, a capital of $24,- 
600; of beer and ale, a capital of $10,000 ; eight printing 
offices, employed 113 hands, and a capital of $73,500 ; two 
rope walks, employed a capital of $2,800 ; thirty-nine hands 
occupied in making carriages, employed a capital of $3,900; 
twentj-seven hands employed in making furniture, a capital 
of $4,650 ; making a total amount of mercantile and manu- 
facturing capital of $553,660. 

The following is the amount produced of the several arti- 
cles of manufacture : Machinery, $2,000 ; bricks, $7,550 ; 
tobacco, $4,500 ; hats, caps, and bonnets, $10,750 ; boots, 
shoes, and other leather manufactures, $48,650 ; candles and 
soap, $8,000; beer and ale, 465,000 gallons, $10,000; 
ropes and cordage, -$7,000 ; carriages, $10,600 ; furniture, 
$11,700; other manufactures, $74,700 ; making the total 
amount of article produced, $195,450. 

The borough contained about 1300 families (in 1840) 
averaging six persons to each, who consume on an average, 
the following amount of articles, to which the cost is added : 
Butter, 338,000 pounds, cost $50,700 ; lard, 65,000 pounds 
$6,500 ; flour 9,100 barrels $45,500 ; meat and poultry, 
810,000 pounds $73,450 : potatoes and garden vegetables 
$33,800 ; fruit and articles not enumerated $38,800 ; milk 
and cheese $19,500 , corn, oats, and buckwheat $16,00 ; 
tallow $8,450 ; hay and straw $6,500 ; wood 6, 500 cords 
$26,000 ; making a total of consumption in the borough, in 
families to the amount of $321,100 ; to w^hich should be ad- 
ded, for taverns and boarding houses $38,900 ; so that the 
whole market of Harrisburg alone, amounts to $360,000 • 
the supply of which furnishes profitable employment to the 
inhabitants of the surrounding country. 

The court house is a large and commodious edifice, which 
was erected in 1794. It is built of brick, two stories high, 



268 



HISTORY Of dauphin COUNTY. 



surmounted by a cupola with a bell, and contains the halls of 
the courts and county offices. It was occupied for several 
years, by the State Legislature. 

The county jail is a splendid affair of its kind, provided 
with solitary cells. The building is Gothic style ; and hav- 
ing in the rear a spacious yard enclosed by a high stone wall. 
The cost of the iail, finished in 1841, is upwards of 
$40,000. 

The several public school houses are large, especially the 
Xiancasterian school house. The Masonic Hall is a large and 
handsome building. The Plarrisburg Bank, and the Harris- 
burg Savings Institution, are the two monied institutions in 
the borough. The Market-house, in an open square, at the 
intersection of the two principal streets, is quite commodious 
and kept cleanly. 

The Borough contains twelve churches, of each of which, 
a detailed notice, so far as it could be obtained, is given in 
the sequel. There are within the limits of the borough, or 
near it, a steam grist and saw mill, rolling mill, and an ex- 
tensive furnace. The rolling mill is owned by M. Pratt, & 
Co.; the furnace by David R. Porter, Esq., late governor of 
Pa.,&Co. _ , 4. S 

The State House is on an elevated spot, from which one 
has a commanding view of the Susquehanna, and surround- 
ing country "studded thick" with hovses and villages. It 
is a large, splendid building, yet modest in appearance, fa- 
cing the river, to which there is a gradual descent. The 
main building is 180 feet front, by 80 feet deep, and two 
stories high ; the lower story contains the vestibule and stair- 
case, the chambers of the Senate and House of Represen- 
tatives, and several smaller apartments for the accommoda- 
tion of the members of Assembly and its officers. The se- 
cond story is appropriated for a court room, in which the Su- 
preme Court is held, Canal Commissioners officers, several 
committee rooms of large dimensions, aud two rooms appro- 
priated to the State Library, comprising rising of eight thou- 
sand volumes. 

The main entrance is by a circular portico, the whole 
height of the building, supported by six Ionic columns of red 
sand-stone painted white, four feet in diameter, and thirty-six 
feet high, the portico reaching thirty-seven feet to a circular 
wall. From the floor to the top of the cornice is 46 feet, 



HISTORY OP DAUPHIN COUNTy. 269 

and the whole height of the front is 50 feet 6 inches. From 
the top of the cornice to the top of the dome is 57 feet 6 
inches, making the whole height 108 ieet. The wings, wJiose 
fronts stand somewhat in advance of the principal building, 
and range with the inner columns, are appropriated to the 
public offices. The Senate Chamber in the main building is 
75 by 57 feet, and 21 feet high ; and the Representative 
chamber is of the same length and height, and 68 feet wide. 
The w^hole are fitted up with convenient desks for the mem- 
bers, slighty raised one above another. The wings which 
are smaller than the main building, have porticos of a similar 
form, and j>resent a symmetrical appearance ; and the whole 
exterior, with its surrounding railing and ornamental grounds, 
presents a grand and imposing apjoearance, and is every way 
worthy to be the capitol of the " Key-Stone State." 

The State Arsenal, also on the public ground, is a fine 
brick edifine. 

Twenty years before the town w^as laid out, and nearly 
half a centuary before it became the seat of government, 
John Harris, the original proprietor, predicted that Harris- 
burg would become the capitol of the State ; and in 1785 
conveyed to the commissioners, " in trust for public use " the 
Sour acres on Capitol hill, on which the Arsenal now stands, 
south-east of the State-house, and public offices, 

The Mount Airy Water Works, supply the borough with 
water. The water is taken from the Susquehanna river by 
a forcing pump worked by a steam engine, and thrown into 
a basin, ninety feet above the river, and north of the Capitol. 
The basin will hold, when filled, 1,532,195 gallons- The 
water is distributed through the borough in metal pipes, from 
twelve to two inches in diameter ; seven or more miles of 
which have already been laid in the streets of the borough. 
The total cost of the Water Works was $120,000. 

The borough has several important bridges. The Harris- 
burg Bridge connects Market Street with Forster's Island, 
and the Island with Cumberland county. 

I am indebted to Joseph Wallace, a gentleman ever ready 
to communicate when addressed, for the following, touching 
the Harrisburg Bridge. The Cumberland Valley Railroad 
Bridge will be noticed in connection with the Railroad in the 
sequel. 

22* 



?70 HISTORY OP DAUPHIN COUNTY. 

Dear Sir : 

I have received your letter of the 13th inst., requesting me to in- 
form you when, and by whom the Harrisburg Bridge was built ; its first 
cost ; the amount of stock held by the State ; the annual cost of repairs, 
and the amount of tolls received annually: Also stating, that any "other 
facts of a general character connected with the Bridge, would be thank- 
fully received." 

In answer to your queries, <kc., permit me respectfully to inform you 
that the company which erected this Bridge, was authorized and em- 
powered by an Act of Assembly, passed April 3, 1809 ; was chartered 
under that act on the 6th day of July, 1812 ; and was duly organized on 
the 8th day of August in the same year, by electing ofiicers to conduct 
its business. 

The elections are required by law to be held annually on the first 
Monday in January. 

On the 2d day of December, 1812, the first foundation stone of the 
Bridge was laid; and on the 16th day of October, 1816, the first toll 
was received. 

The Bridge and Toll-houses were completed in 1817, 
at a total cost of $192,138 00 

Of this sum the State paid, and received stock 
in the company therefor, to the amount of 90,000 00 

Individuals in like manner paid 57,700 00 

Stock forfeited for delinquencies, upon which 
was paid 5,277 42 

The Balance, was a debt due by the company 
upon the completion of the Bridge, viz : 39,160 58 

$192,138 00 

This debt of $39,160 58 was luUy paid out of the tolls received pre- 
vious to the declaration of any dividend to the stockholders. 

The dividends are made and declared half-yearly. The first was 
declared January 1st, 1821, and the last, July 7, 1845. They have va- 
ried in amount during this time; but the average during this period of 
25 years, is about 65 per cent, per annum. 

The average cost of repairs for the last 21 years, has been nearly 
$2000 per annum. 

At the first election, held August 8, 1812, the following named per- 
sons were duly elected to the offices annexed to their names respect- 
ively, viz: 

Thomas Elder, President. 

John Ritchey, Henry Deader, Jacob M. Haldeman, Jacob Boas, Geo. 
Brenizer, John Howard, Geoige Hoyer, William Bryson, John Myting- 
er, John Lamb, Samuel C. Wiestling, and Michael Krehl — Directors. 

John Downey, Secretary and Treasurer. 

Two only of the above officers survive, the others are all dead ; and 
at present those who hold, and have held by election for 33 years in 
succession, the same offices to which they were first elected. Those 
two are Thomas Elder, President, and Jacob M. Haldeman, Director. 

The present ofiicers of the company are 

Thomas Eider, President; 

Jacob M. Hummel, David Haldeman, John Geiger, John Snevely, 



HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 271 

William Rutherford, Benjamin Eberly, William Allison, Michael Leb- 
kicher, Jacob S. Hakieman, Samuel Pool, George H. Bucher, and Wil- 
liam R. Gorgas — Directors. 

Joseph Wallace, Treasurer and Secretary. 

The foregoing contains the information you requested me to give, 
and is, perhaps, sufficient for the object you have in view; but, if time 
and circumstances would permit, I could greatly extend this communi- 
cation, by stating a variety of other facts connected with the erection 
of this Bridge, which might be interesting to, at least, a portion of the 
public. But, I am admonished to be brief; I will therefore only men- 
tion a few of the diffindUcs which the original Board of Directors met 
and overcome, in the faithful discharge of their duties. 

The great body of the people, at the commencement of this work, 
thought it entirely impracticable — altogether visionary : and even a 
goodly number of the subscribers for stock themselves never dreamed 
that they or their children would ever be called on to pav their sub- 
scriptions. They believed firmly that the project would fall through, 
and be abandoned as a matter of course. And when they were com- 
pelled 10 pay according to their written promises, they felt confident 
that their money might as well have been east into the sea, for all the 
good that would ever come of it. 

There were some who ridiculed the idea of attempting to build a 
permanent bridge over the river Susquehanna — a mighty mountain 
stream ; others sneered at it ; and there were not a few who considered 
the project and its advocates nearly allied to insanity. 

But, they were all mistaken ; and most happily disappointed. For. 
notwithstanding all the opposition which was arrayed against the en- 
terprize and the Board of Directors who had it in charge, they pursued 
the even tenor of their way, and persevered therein until their efforts 
■were crowned with triumphant success, in the completion of the 
Bridge, where it now stands a monument of their wisdom and fore- 
sight; and the public at large, for thirty years past, have been enjoying 
the benefit and convenience it affords. 

However, the ridicule, the sneers, and the taunts which were heaped 
upon the President and Directors, formed but a part of their difficulties. 
Money, the grand mover, was wanting, and not so easily supplied at 
that early day as at present; and nothing could be done without it. 
Subscribers held back; the State only agreed to pay on certain condi- 
tions, and in four equal instalments. Then the great question for 
the Board to determine was, how can we raise money to do work 
enough to entitle us to these payments from the State? It maybe 
said, why did not the Board borrow and pledge the corporation for 
payment. They tried that; but nobody would lend to a corporation 
engaged in a project that was considered by the great body of the peo- 
ple ridiculous, visionary and insane." Then, what was to be done? 
Just what was done, and nothing else. It was this; the President 
and other officers of the Institution borrowed large sums of monpv 
from time to time, as the work progressed, upon their own private 
credit and individual responsibility, in anticipation of the subscrip- 
tion money to be paid by the State and the individual stockholders; 
and when the subscription money was received, those officers redeem- 
ed their credit therewith. And thus they operated from the commence- 



272 HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 

ment to the completion of the work, risking their means, credit and 
reputation, for the accomplishment of an object which they then be- 
lieved would be, and which every body now knows has been, and is, 
of more real and substantial benefit and convenience to the communi- 
ty than any other improvement of the same magnitude and cost in the 
connmonwealih. 

Trusting that the foregoing may be satisfactory to you, 
I am, very respectfully, 
Yours, 

J. WiLLACB, 

Harrisburg, Oct. 22, 1845. 

P. S. The Slate is not a stockholder in the company at present, hav- 
ing so'd out her stock in the year 1843, for about one-fourth of its orig- 
inal cost. 

J. W, 



STREETS AND ALLEYS. 

The following Streets and Alleys run parallel with the 
Susquehanna river, and are given, beginning at the river, in 
their regular order, to the canal. 

Front street. River alley, Second street, Raspberry alley. 
Third street, Dewberry alley. Fourth street, Fifth street, 
Back alley, or Sixth street. Canal street. 

East of the Capitol — High street. Tanner's lane. Short 
street, Cranberry alley. The streets and alleys named above, 
are crossed, by the following : 

North street, State street. South street, Barbara alley, 
Pine street, Cranberry alley, Locust street. Walnut street, 
Strawberry alley. Market street, Blackberry alley, Chestnut 
street. Cherry alley, Mulberry street, Mary's alley, Harris' 
alley, Vine street, Paxton street, Meadow lane. 

Since Harrisburg has been laid out, many interesting and 
thrilling incidents have taken place within its limits. During 
the Western Insurrection of 1794, President Washington, 
and other distinguished individuals, tarried a night here. The 
following extracts, it is believed, will be read with interest. 

" On Friday afternoon, three companies of horse, contain- 
incr in all, 130, arrived from Philadelphia, the whole under 



* HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 273 

the command of Capt. John Dunlap. The company of Light 
Dragoons, commanded by Capt. John Irwin, of this town; 
the corps of Light Infantry, commanded by Capt. George 
Fisher, with the most distinguished officers of the county, 
were paraded, all in complete uniform, in order to receive 
them. After the usual ceremonies, the dragoons dismounted 
to refresh themselves, and yesterday morning they proceeded 
on to Carlisle. 

" Tuesday last, passed through this on their way to Gen. 
Wayne's army, (O. T.) about 80 regular troops, command- 
ed by Capt. Lyman. They were from the State of Massa- 
chusetts, and in good spirits. 

" Thursday evening, arrived here from New Jersey, under 
the command of Richard Howell, Esq., governor of that 
State, about 370 dragoons, completely mounted and equip- 
ped — all volunteers. It raining very rapidly on their arrival, 
the citizens of Harrisburg, with their usual degree of affec- 
tion to the sons of liberty and patriotism, voluntarily opened 
their doors for their reception. The next morning they 
crossed the Susquehanna, on their way to Carlisle, after ex- 
pressing their satisfaction in the following manner : 

" The commander of the Jersey militia detachment, feels 
himself bound to acknowledge the politeness of the citizens 
of Harrisburg, to his company, and requests that their grat- 
itude and his own, joined with the highest respect, may be 
signified in a proper manner. Richard Howell, Comm't 
Jersey Detachment. — Harrisburg, Sept. 25, 1794." 

On Friday last, (Oct. 3,) the President of the United 
States arrived in this town. The pleasure excited, in be- 
holding for the first time, our beloved Chief, in this borough, 
is not easily described. The following address was delivered 
to him, by the burgesses, in behalf of the inhabitants of the 
town : 

To His Excellency, George "Washington, Esq., President of the United 
States of America. 

Sir— 

We, the the Burgesses and citizens of Harrisburgh, rejoice in the 
opportunity of presenting our respects to a character, so justly revered 
and dear to Americans, we cannot but lament that we should owe it to 
an interruption of the peace and prosperity of our country, those con- 
stant objects of our public cares. We trust, however, that the just 
indignation which fires the breasts of all virtuous citizens, at the un- 



274 



HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



provoked outrages comrailted by those lawless men, who are in oppo' 
pjtion to one of the mildest and most equal of governments of which 
the condition of man is susceptible, will excite such exertions, as to 
crush the spirit of disaffection wherever it has appeared, and that our 
political horizon will shine brighter than ever on a dispersion of the 
clouds, which now menace and obscure it. 

Though our sphere of action is too limited to produce anyimporlant 
effects, yet we beg leave to assure your Excellency, that so far as it ex- 
tends, our best endeavors shall not be wanting to support the happy 
constitution, and wise administration of our government. 

Signed in behalf of the borough. 

CoXRAD BOMBACH, 

Al£X. Berrthill, 

Burgesses. 
Harrisburg, Oct. 3, 1794. 

To which he was pleased to return the following answer : 

To the Burgess and other citizens of Harrisburg. 
Gentlemen — 

In declaring to you the genuine satisfaction I derive from your ve- 
ry cordial support, I will not mingle any expression of the painful sen- 
sations which I experience from the occasion that has drawn me hither. 
You will be at no loss to do justice to my feelings. But relying on that 
kindness of Providence towards our country which every adverse ap- 
pearance hitherto has served to manifest, and counting upon the tried 
good sense and potriotism ol the great body of our fellow citizens, I do 
not hesitate to indulge, with you, the expectation of such an issue, as 
will serve to confirm the blessings we enjoy, under a constitution that 
well deserves the confidence and support of virtuous and enlightened 
men. To class the inhabitants of Harrisburg among this number, is 
only to bear testimony to the zealous and efficient exertions which they 
have made towards the defence of the laws. 

Geo. Wasuixgtoh. 
Oct. 4, 1794. 

" Harrisburg, October 27, 1794 : On Sunday Se -nnight, 
arrived in this tOM'n ; the last draft of militia, from the state 
of New Jersey, under the command of Col. Crane, consist- 
ing of 300 toot and cavalry. A gentleman just arrived in 
town from Bedford, informs, that the troops marched from 
that town, on Thursday last (Oct. 23) on their way to Pitts- 
burgh. About 20 of the malcontents had been brought in, 
and committed to prison, at Bedford, and four, said to be 
noted leailers of this motley crew, called Lucas, Husbands, 
Wisecarver, and another, whose name our informant cannot 
recollect, were sent off to Philadelphia. The troops were 
in good spirits and anxious to reach the place of destination. 
A melancholy accident took place, a few days since, while 
several companies were at exercise — One of the men, who 



HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 275 

the day before, loaded his piece with shot, in order for hunt- 
ing, and forgetting to remove the sarae, discharged the con- 
tents, by which a young man belonging to the militia of 
York county, was mortally wounded in the head, and another 
slightly in the shoulder." 

Mr. Graydon, who then resided at Harrisburg, and who 
was for many years a close observer of men and things, 
speaks of this occurrence as follows : 

The western expedition, as it was called, gave me an op- 
portunity of seeing a number of my old friends from Phila- 
delphia ; and it afforded also a momentary triumph to the 
poor handful of Harrisburg federalists, who were stated by 
their opponents to amount to only five. 

A French flag, which had been flying at the court house, 
then building, had been the cause of some squabbling in the 
newspaper ; and this flag was peremptorily ordered to be ta- 
ken down by the troops from the city. Had I been disposed 
for revenge, I might upon this occasion, have been fully gra- 
tified, as I was repeatedly asked, who had caused it to be 
put up, and impliedly censured for giving evasive answers to 
the questions ; which, from their manner, evinced a disposi- 
tion to treat the authors of it much more roughly than would 
have been agreeable to me. 

Conspicuous among the crowd that rolled on to the east- 
ward, was Governor Mifflin. On the day of his arrival, he 
convened the people at the market house, and gave them an 
animated harangue, in which there was nothing exceptiona- 
ble, save a monstrous suggestion, that the British had stirred 
up the discontents to the westward, and been the cause of 
the present opposition to government. 

In a few days after the Governor, General Washington, 
accompanied by Colonel Hamilton, came on. After waiting 
on them, I prevailed upon the Burgesses to present an ad- 
dress to the President, which I sketched out, and which, 
from the cordiality of the answer, appeared to have been well 
received." 

Other incidents of recent occurrence, still fresh ins the me- 
mory of thousands, for the want of space, are passed by. 

Education receives more than an ordinary share of atten- 
tion. The several well conducted schools of advanced stand- 
ing, and the attention paid to the public schools, in the bor- 
ough of Harrisburg, is proof sufficient. In the Harrisburg 



276 



HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



Academy, under the care of Mr. Armstrong, the Latin, 
Greek, the Natural Sciences, Geography, English Grammar, 
&c., are thoroughly taught. 

The Ladies' Seminary, conducted by Mr. Gad Day, an 
experienced teacher, and another }iarrisburg Female Semi- 
nary, taught by Miss Brown, sustain a fair reputation ; and 
are worthy of a liberal patronage. 

The Pennsylvania Literary, Scientific and Military Insti- 
tute, opened April 15, 1845, and under the direction of Cap. 
Partridge, favorably known to the community, is a school, 
considering thai it is yet in its incipiency, which has excited 
some interest. The course of instruction embraces the Eng- 
lish, Latin and Greek languages ; Mathematics, theoretical 
and practical, &c. Besides a thorough literary course ; the 
arts of war are taught. 

The Public Schools — emphatically the public schools — 
are well managed, by an efficient Board of Directors, and 
competent teachers. In 1844, there were twenty schools in 
successful operation in the borough ; ten male and ten female 
teachers were employed, giving instruction to 564 male and 
596 female scholars. The borough levied for school purpo- 
ses the same year, the sum of $6,151,76. The State appro- 
priation amounted to $1,-329. Cost of instruction $5,681,80; 
fuel and contingencies $212,00. Cost of school rooms, &c., 
$246,62. The average salary paid to male teachers $31 
per month ; to females, 17 dollars. 

Important, as these several institutions are in their legitimate 
sphere, they derive essential aid from a well conducted 
press. Several ably edited papers are published in this bor- 
ough. The following are their titles, names of editors, as 
furnished by an esteemed friend, William Lewis. 

" Pennsylvania Reporter & Home Journal," — Democratic 
— Isaac R. Diiler, Editor and Proprietor. 

" Pennsylvania Intelligencer," — Whig — by C. M'Curdy. 

" Democratic Union," — Democratic — Isaac G. M'Kinley 
& J. M. Lescure, Editors and Proprietors. 

" Pennsylvania Telegraph," — Whig — by Theo. Fenn. 

" Harrisburg Argus," — Democratic — by J. J. C. Can- 
tine. 

"American Reformer," — devoted to the cause of Temper- 
ance — by J. M. Willlis Geist. 

" American Sentine)," — by P. H. McWilliams. 



GERMAN REFORMED CHURCH AT HARRISBURG. 










HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



277 



" Pennsylvanische Staats Zeitung," — Democratic — by Ja- 
cob Baab und Comp. Herausgeber und Eigenthuemer. 

" Der Vaterlands-Waechter,"— Whig — Gedruckt und he- 
rausgegben von Geo. Bergner. , 



CHURCHES OF HARRISBURG.* 

Previous to the erection of the first Church building in 
Harrisburg, the early settlers often held divine worship in a 
one story log school house, which then stood at the foot of 
Capitol Hill, on the North corner of Third and Walnut sts. 
This building has since been removed, and is now (1845) 
standing on the South side of Walnut street, near Meadow 
lane, and is occupied as a dwelling house. Soon after the 
laying out of the town, the settlers took measures to build a 
church. The community, at that early day, being made up 
of all denominations, the original subscription papers for the 
" first church," read '-^ for the. use of the subscribers i'^ and 
long after the erection of the house, clergymen of different 
denominations officiated in it, by permission, as opportunity 
occurred. The undertaking was, however, by those who 
professed the doctrines of Ulric Zwingleand Martin Luther: 
and the church was owned and occupied, statedly, only by 
the German Reformed and Evangelical Lutheran congrega- 
tions, and was erected on a lot, given by John Harris to them 
for that purpose. This lot is No. 187, in the plan of the bo- 
rough, situated on the corner of Chestnut and Third streets : 
it is fifty-two feet and six inches on Chestnut, and extends 
two hundred and ten feet on Third street to Cherry alley. 
The " first church" is built of logs, was erected and is still 
standing on the corner of Third street and Cherry alley — 
fronting on Third street thirty-five feet five inches, and ex- 
tending back on Cherry alley thirty feet and five inches. As 
much interest is attached to this building, on account of its 

• The Compiler is indebted to Rudolph F. Kdker, son of Mr. Frederick 
Kelker, an old inhabitant of Harrisburg, for this account of the church- 
es of Harrisburg. 

24 



278 



HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



being the " first church in Harrisburg" — an engraving is in- 
serted here, which is faithfully executed by Mr. Jacob M. 
Beck, after a drawing taken by Mr. Charles Burton, in 1845, 
by order of the vestry of the German Reformed Church. — 
[See engraving]. 

On the 12th of March, 1787, a subscription was com- 
menced for the erection of the church ; and the original sub- 
scription papers are here copied in full, as they will exhibit 
names of most of the original settlers of the town, and will 
doubtless be satisfactory to their numerous descendants, who 
still look with interest to " the church which their father's 
built:' 

Copy of the Original English subscription paper. 

" We, the subscribers, do, each of us, promise to pay, or 
cause to be paid, unto John Norton, Christian Gunckel, Geo. 
Redig and Henry Brunner, or their order, on demand, the 
sums annexed to each of our names, respectively, to be held 
and appropriated by the said John Norton, Christian Gunck- 
el, George Redig and Henry Brunner, in purchasing materi- 
als for, and in building a Church and School house, in some 
convenient part of the town of Harrisburg, for the use of the 
subscribers. In witness, whereof, we have hereunto set our 
hands, with the sums annexed, this 12th day of March, Anno 
Domini, 1787. 



Christian Gunckel 
J. Montgomery 
Moses Gilmor 
John Hamilton 
John Brooks 
John A. Hanna 
John Kean 
Michael Capp 
John Joseph Henry 
John Titsworth 
Samuel Berryhill 
Henry Fulton 
Robert Stevenson 
Alexander Power 



£ 


s d 


£ 


s d 


2 





Henrich Eilman 


5 




15 


Benjamin Bomberger 


7 6 




10 


Michael Ausbach 


2 6 


1 


10 


Geo. Rabsom 


15 




10 


William Gleht 


7 6 




15 


Andrew Forrest 


7 6 




15 


Jacob Henning 


7 6 




15 


James Duncan 


7 6 


2 


12 6 


Andw. Armstrong — 






15 


{hart gelt) 1 


8 




7 6 


Jacob 


5 6 




10 


George Hartman 


5 




7 6 


Hanes Flickinger 


15 




17 6 


F. Lang 


5 



HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



279 



£ s d 

George Dieffebach 15 

Stephen Stevenson 10 

George Fackler 15 

F. O'Ferral (run off) 10 

Samuel Grimes 7 6 
Richard R. King — 

his I mark 7 6 
Adam Boyd 7 6 
John Hoofe 7 6 
Samuel Boyd 15 
John Ebert 1 10 
Michael Bohl 3 9 
Christian Schwink 6 
Henrich Bohl 5 
James McNamee 7 6 
Alexander Graydon 15 
Alexander Barr 5 
James Sawyers 7 6 
Robert Barr 5 
George Friher 5 
Jeremiah Rees 10 
Due in cash 2 6 
Thomas Hartley 7 6 
Dec. 21, 1787, Mr. Hen- 
ry paid, in part, his 
subscription, three dol- 
lars remains 
Jacob Zimmerman 3 9 
Thos. Hartley, upon re- 
flection, in addition 7 6 
Stephen Chambers ]5 7 
Peter Hoofnagle 15 
Jonathan M'Clure, Esq 8 4 



£ s d 

Charles Bauermeister 5 

John Boyd 7 6 

Richard Dixon 7 6 
McClelland & Reynolds 7 6 

Adam Natcher 7 6 

Martin Bundlagel 7 6 

William Crabb 7 6 

J. Hubley 15 

John MaChesney 7 6 

Joseph Smith 7 6 

Johannes Herse 1 2 6 

Charles Stewart 10 

Peter Hershey 7 6 

David Montgomery 7 6 

John Wilkes Kittera 15 

Jasper Yeates, Esq 15 
Haben wir Emfangen 
vonde rKord (court) 
vor die Kirch in 

Harrisburk 4 10 

John Spayd 7 6 

Frederick Kleckner 9 

Johans Koeller 5 

George Hoyer 2 

George Benedick 11 3 . 

William Kelso 5 Q 

M'Luebb Pfarrer 6 2 
Frederick Schweitzer ein 

Tag Holz geschleft 15 
habe ich emfangen vor 
den ueberrest von Stein 
und Kalck vor die 

Kirch zu bauen 5 



280 



HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



Copy of the Original German subscription paper. 

Zur errichtung und Anbauung eines Schulhauses und 
Kirche auf einen der besten und tauglichsten p]azes allhier in 
Harrisburgjversprechen wir unterschriebenen die von uns bey 
gesetzte sumrae zu bezahlen an George Rettich, Johannes 
Norton, Christian Kunckel und Henry Brunner, davon der 
gebrauch allein vor die Unterschriebenen seyen solle, zur 
begraeftigen dieses haben wir unsere Nahmen nebst der sura- 
me welches wir zu diesem Gottes werck widmen wollen bey 
gesetzet, und wollen solches ohne fehl auf die erste anfrage 
an geraeldete Georg Rettich, Johannes Norton, Christian 
Kunckel and Henry Brunner richtig und ohne widerrede 
ubertraegen, so geschehen, Harrisburgden 12ten Mertz 1787. 



Henrich Brunner 
Jacob Zollinger 
George Fritley 
Vallentein Horter 
Karl 



s 
10 
10 
10 
10 

7 



Henrich Henninger (off) 15 
John Phul 15 

Johannes Dentzel 1 15 
Georg Schoederin 1 10 
Frederick Clackner 9 

Sacob Silsel (run off) 15 
John Hocker 15 

Michael Filbi 15 

Johan«es Huessner 15 
George Leru 15 





£ s d 


Franz Leru 


12 6 


Michael Wolf 


2 6 


Cornelius Cox 


7 6 


Thomas Forster 


5 


Georg Schuetz 
Michel Kab 


7 6 
15 


Conrad Bombaugh 
Peter Bollinger (run 
Jacob Welschans 


15 

off) 
5 7 


Henrich Boeder 


5 


Jacob Weber 


15 


Jacob Weber darauf be- 


zahlt 


12 6 


Michael Kab emfangen 12 6 



Copy of the Original Paper, 

For extra expenses incurred by erection of School House, 
and completion of the same. 

" Da zum Nutzen und gebrauch der heranwachsenden 
Deutsche Jugend ein Schulhaus neben die Kirche erbauet 
worden und in dasselbige, auch ein stuben oten gesetzt wor- 
den, und nun mehr auch bequem ist Winters zeit Gottes 
dienst darin zuhalten und da es eines jeden Christen sein 



HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



281 



Pflicht ist, vor seine Kinder zu sorgen damit sie in gutem 
unterwiesen kommen werden, so werden alia diejenigen 
freundlichst ersucht einen gefaelligen Beytrag zu thun, damit 
die dadurch verursachte Unkosten des Baues bezahlt werden 
koennen. Harrisburg den 19th December, 1791. 

Trustees — John Dentzel, Georg Rettig, Georg Huyger, 
Henrich Brunner. 



£ s d 
George Hoyer hat 3 tag 

geschaft 3-9 11 3 

George Rettig hat 4 tag 

geschaft 15 

50 Backenstein 1 3 

16 3 
Friederich Pflieger gibt 

ein paar Baender 2 9 

Michael Derstein ein 

Tag geschaft 3 9 

Georg Pfrieinmer hat 

ein tag geschaft 3 9 

Peter Walter vor ein 

Fuss zum Ofen ge- 

macht 5 

Jacob Ehebrecht gibt in 

gelt, bezahlt vor der 

Rechnuno- 3 9 

John Dentzel gibt in gelt 7 6 
Johannes Ebert 113 

Joseph Dritt 4 2 

Georg Leber 2 6 

Jacob Welshans hat ein 

tag geschaft 3 9 

George Ziegler ein tag 

geschaft 4 

Georg Frientley 3 9 

Peter Denig 110 

George .lauss 3 9 

Conrad Bombach 2 6 

Friederich Jauss 3 9 

Ilenrich Conrad 3 9 

Schlurlott , 2 



£ s d 
Hannes Zin 3 9 

Peter Nueger ein Tag 

geschaft 3 9 

Georg Feirstein 1 10 

Andreas Rihra 2 6 

Tobias Seyboth 2 6 

Adam Hocker 2 6 

Christoff Hacker 2 

Johannes Hacker 5 

John Rorage 1 

Valentine Wanger 2 6 

Jacob Zollinger hat 3 

Tag geschaft 11 3 

John Pool 15 Lits, sash 

for the school house 5 
Andreas Krausse 1 10^ 

Jacob Reitzel 3 9 

Michael Yaene 1 10^ 

John Luther 5 7| 

Michael Kopp 7 6 

Carl Miller 2 9 

Henrich Beder 1 10 

John Comfort ein Tag 

geschaft 3 9 

George Hartman 3 9 

Johannes Schneider 3 9 

Johannes Heiss 14 lb. 

Naegel gemacht 5 

Bens das Bund 5 10 

Stephen Horning 1 

Christopher Suess 5 

Balser Suess 5 

Jacob Sehrly 5 

24* 



282 HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 

£ s d £ s d 

Georg Hess 2 6 John Deffer 2 

Philipp Blimuth 2 6 Martin Kapp 1 10 

Philipp Ebbreit 1 10 Henrich Ruthraff 3 9 

Conrad Tresenreider hat Abraham Huy 5 7 

geben 15 Licht (ille- Frantz and Georg Leru 
gible) 6 3 in gesaegt Holtz 1 5 7 

Christian Kunckel 12 6 Endorsed on outside of sub- 

Valentein Horter 3 9 scription paper, viz : 

Jacob Bucher 1 10^ Es ist zusammen in 

Caspar Smith 2 Geld 7 19 lOi 



The German Reformed Church. 

From the first church book in possession of the German 
Reformed Church, it appears that the first pastor of the said 
church was Rev. A. Hautz, and that the Rev. F. D. Schaef- 
fer, who then resided in, or near Carlisle, preached statedly 
for the Lutheran congregation of Harrisburg. The first date 
in the book alluded to is, October 18th, 1788, and is in the 
handwriting of the Rev. F. D. Schaeffer: and the entries on 
the second page are apparently in the handwriting of Rev. 
A. Hautz. Both congregations appear to have been united 
in their temporal affairs, and all church regulations from the 
year 1787 to 1795. Rev. A. Hautz was the first stationed 
pastor of the German Reformed Church, and the first resi- 
dent pastor settled in Harrisburg.* They chose, by mutual 
agreement, their own Church officers, as appears by the first 
record of an election, which took place September 12, 1790, 
and is as follows — 

On the German Reformed On the Lutheran side, 

side. 
Trustees. Trustees. 

George Haeyer, John Denzel, 

Henrich Brunner. George Rettig. 

* Rev. A. Hautz owned and occupied the same house which is now 
owned and occupied by Rev. J. F. Mesick, the present pastor of th« 
sam« church. It is situated on Chesnut street — the third house south- 
west of the church. 



history of dauphin couktt. 283 

Elders. Elders. 

Jacob Zollinger, Christian Kunckel, 

George Hatz. John Hacker. 

Deacons. Deacons. 

Jacob Staely, Michael Von Keuen, 

Jacob Welschans. John Ebert. 

The elections of 1792 and 1793 are also recorded. 

The next congregational entry in the church book, is in 
1795, and is as follows : 

" Im Jahr 1795, wurden die zwey Geraeinden in Harris- 
burgh naeralich die Reformirt und Lutherisch von einander 
Sebarirt, und waehlten auf Reiormirter Seite zum Kircheu' 
rath. 

"Trustees — George Haeyer, Henrich Brunner, Aeltesten 
Jacob Shultz, Simon Schneider, Vorsteher Henrich Liphart, 
Johannes Pfeiffer." 

The fact ot the separation of the two churches in 1795, \s 
further established by the Lutheran Church Book, which 
commences in the year 1795 — the first entries in which, are 
made by Rev. Henry Mueller, who then settled in Harris- 
burg as the first stationed pastor of the Lutheran church. 

The two congregations, however, still continued to occu- 
py the same building for public worship until 1814, when 
the Lutherans purchased ground in Front, between Market 
and Chesnut streets, and erected a handsome brick church 
and school house adjoining. 

In 1795, the old church was wainscoted, and sundry 
repairs made; and in 1804 the vestries of the churches did 
much to render the building comfortable ; a pulpit was erect- 
ed, and galleries put up, on three sides ; the sides were plas- 
tered and the exterior weather-boarded and painted white. 

These improvements were finished in 1805. On the 28th of 
March, 1612, Rev. Philip Gloninger, George Hoyer, Fred- 
erick Kelker, Nicholas Ott, and Frederick Boas, purchased 
Lot No. 186, adjoining the old church property, from Joseph 
Allen, for $1400, for the exclusive use of the German Re- 
formed Church. On the 13th July 1813, the Lutherans for- 
mally proposed a division of the church property, upon cer- 
tain conditions, to which, however, their Reformed Brethren 
would not agree. 

June 17, 1815, a second proposition was made by the Lu- 



284 HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 

therans, that the German Reformed Church should purchase 
an undivided half of the new Lutheran Church, which had 
been built in Fourth street, in 1814. This occasioned con- 
siderable discussion, but the majority of the Reformed oppo- 
sed the measure, and the result was, that on the first of April 
1816, the German Reformed congregation purchased for 
?.1000, the whole interest of the Lutherans in the church lot 
and buildings thereon erected. On the 3d day of July A. D. 
1818, the members of the German Reformed congregation 
became a body corporate under the name and title of " The 
German Reformed Salem Church of Harrisburg." The fol- 
lowing are the signers to the articles of incorporations : 

Vestry : Trustees, Christian Shaeffer, John Zinn ; Elders, 
George VV^etherholt, John Kelker ; Deacons, John Horter, 
John S. Wiestling, George Kunkel, Jacob Hise ; Members, 
M. Rahm, A. Dorsheimer, George Hoyer, Henry George, 
Jacob Miesch, Jacob Cunkle, Jacob Hoyer, Jacob Bucher, 
George Snyder, Fred. Beisel, Joseph Doll, John Henning, 
Henry Frey, Henry Weltshover, Jacob Balsley, Frederick 
Kelker, David S. Forney, Jacob Steinman, Jacob Greena- 
walt, Peter, Bachman, Jacob Kunkle, Samuel C. Weistling, 
jr., Samuel Swartz, Conrad Knepley, Michael Derstein, 
Nicholas Ott, John Horn, David Beissel, Peter Snider, Da- 
niel Snider, John A. Stehley. 

On the loth January 1821, a meeting of the members was 
held in the old church at which Frederick Kelker presided, 
and John Wrestling acted as Secretary, at which it was re- 
solved to erect a new church of suitable dimensions, to front 
on Chesnut street. The following persons were appointed 
to collect subscriptions for the purpose. 

Jacob Bucher, John Kelker, John Zinn, John S. Wiest- 
ling, Rev. John Winebrenner, John Horter, Frederick Kelker 
and Conrad Knepley. Three weeks afterwards, viz : Feb. 
5, 1821, the committee reported six thousand and six dollars 
in cash and subscriptions, and the vestry were requested to 
contract for the ereetion of a new church. 

On the 8th of March 1821, the vestry contracted with 
Messrs. Samuel Pool and Henry V. Wilson, for the erection 
of a Brick Church, sixty feet front and seventy-five feet 
deep, and with a tower one hundred and ten feet to the top 
of the wood work, to be completed by July 1, 1822, for the 
sum of eight thousand dollars. To carry the plan into exe- 



HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUKTY. 285 

cution, the old log school house, and the brick house, both 
of which stood on the church lots, were taken down and re- 
moved. The church building was immediately commenced, 
nnd carried on with despatch, and on the 11th June 1821, 
the Corner Stone was laid with appropriate ceremonies ; on 
the 21st June 1822, the bell weighing six hundred and sixty- 
seven pounds, w^hich had been procured in London, at an ex- 
pence of $346,565 cents, was taken to the church and placed 
in the tower. The following inscriptions are upon it: " T. 
Mears of London, Fecit 1822," " May all. whom I may 
summon to the grave, the blessings of a well spent life re- 
ceive." The church was finished Aug. 1, 1822, and on the 
4th day of the same month dedicated to Jehovah. Total 
cost of church per settlement made Feb. 15, 1823, was 
f 8537.54, exclusive of bell. 

No repairs or additions were made to the church property 
of any importance until 1827, when the old church was al- 
tered by extending an upper floor from the eastern to the 
western gallery, thus converting the interior into two large 
rooms. The upper one was used for a long time by the Sab- 
bath School, and the lower as a day-school. They are now, 
1845, both occupied by the Common Schools. In the sum- 
mer of 1841, the pulpit of the Brick Church was removed 
and its place supplied by one of modern style ; the walls 
painted and sundry other improvements made in the interior; 
the same year (1841) the congregation also erected a spaci- 
ous lecture room, one story high, 27 by 54 feet, with 13 feet 
ceiling ; this building stands a little in the rear of the new 
church. 

The following are the names of the stationed pastors of 
the German Reformed Church, from its foundation to the 
present time. 

Rev. Anthony Hautz, from probably 1791 to 1797 ; in the 
Tax Duplicates of Dauphin county, it seems that Mr. Hautz 
was first taxed in 1762 and the last year in which he is no- 
ted as a resident of Harrisburg, is in 1797. 

Rev. Jonathan Helfenstein, from September 7th, 1805 to 
1808. 

Rev. Philip Gloninger, from July 17, 1808 to June 26, 
1814. 

Rev. Frederick Rahauser, from April 5, 1816 to April 5, 
1819. 



286 HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 

Rev. John Winebrenner, from October 22 1820, to March 
23, 1823. 

Rev. Albert Helfenstein, from March 1, 1824 to Septem- 
ber 8, 1829. ' 

Rev. Daniel Zacharias, from February 21, 1830 to Feb- 
ruary 23, 1835. 

Rev. Joseph F. Ber^, from November 1, 1835, to Novem- 
ber 6, 1836. 

Rev. John H. Smaltz, from November 1, 1838 to Novem- 
ber 1, 1840. 

Rev. John F. Mesick, the present pastor, settled in Harris- 
burg December 17, 1840. 

The present number of communicant members, 200. 

The Sabbath School numbers 225 scholars, and teachers, 
and has a library of 800 volumes, and is under the superin- 
tendence of Hon. John C. Bucher. 

It is worthy of mention that the " Confirmation table " 
which in days of old, stood before before the pulpit in the 
first chur( h, now constitutes the altar in the present sabbath 
school room, and is in good preservation ; around this table 
were confirmed many of the grandfathers and fathers of the 
present generation ; it has witnessed the union of our fathers 
with the church, by the solemn rites of baptism and confir- 
mation ; and their descendants of the third generation now 
gather before it on each returning Sabbath, to hymn the 
praises of their Creator. It is made of black walnut and 
has been in use tor more than half a century. 



The Evangelical Lutheran Church. 

This congregation worshipped in the same church, which, 
with their German Reformed brethren, they had united in 
erecting in 1787, from the period of its erection until 1814, 
when they purchased a Lot on 4th, between Market anfi 
Chesnut streets, and erected thereon a handsome brick church, 
and adjoining the same, in 1822, a large two story brick 
school house. In 1816, they sc'd their interest in the old 
church property on Third street, to the German Reformed 
Church, for one thousand dollars. The first record in their 
oldest church book is in 1795, by the Rev. Henry Mueller, 
who was their first stationed pastor. To the articles of 



HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 287 

church government, written out at length in the first part of 
said book, the first few pages of which are unfortunately 
lost, the following signatures appear. These persons are, 
therefore, to be considered as the founders of the Evangeli- 
cal Lutheran Church in Harrisburg, viz : 

Benjamin Kurtz, Heury Saylor, George PfeifTer, Mathias 
Hutman, George Jauss, Georg Hartman, Frederick Youse, 
Johanness Ebert, John Shoch, Georg Ziegler, Martin Krie- 
ger, Georg Seidel, Georg Scheile, Georg Emerich, Peter 
Walter, Caspar Shmiilt, Stephen Horning, Georg Buks, 
Balthazer Sees, John Fager, Peter Brickerj Christolf Suess, 
John Mytinger, Bernhard Geiger, Peter Brua. 

At this time, December 1845, but two of the number re- 
main ; John Fager and George Youse. All the rest have 
descended to the tomb. Fifty years ago they assisted their 
first pastor. Rev. Henry Mueller, in his laudable efforts to 
gather together members, and permanently organize the Lu- 
theran church, and God, in his providence, has spared them 
to behold their then small -number increase from time to time, 
until they now constitute the largest and most influential 
congregation in Harrisburg. 

The church and school house erected in 1814, -were des- 
troyed by fire on Sabbath evening, October 2J, 1838. It is 
worthy of note, that on the morning following, viz: Oct. 
22, before the smouldering ruins were extinguished, the then 
pastor. Rev. Samuel Sprecher, together with the vestry and 
a number of the members of the church, met on the spot, ap- 
pomted committees and adopted other measures for the spee- 
dy erection of the large and beautiful church which they 
now occupy. Universal sympathy was felt and liberal dona- 
tions were made by sister denominations. In 1839, the 
building was finished and dedicated to the worship of God 
on the 10th day of November of that year. 

The building is 64 feet front by 84 feet deep, and has a 
large Lecture and several Sabbath School rooms in the base- 
ment story. It is of brick, covered with composition and pain- 
ted white. The cupola contains two fine bells. 

The following is a list of the stationed pastors of the 
church since its foundation, viz: 

Rev. Henry Muller, from 1795 to 1803. 

Rev. J. Peterson, from 1803 to 1812. 

Rev. J. C. Shaeflfer, from 1812 to 1815. 



288 HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 

Rev. George Lochman, from 1815 to 1826. 

Rev. Augustus H. Lochman, from 1827 to 1836. 

Rev. Samuel Sprecher, from 1836 to 1840. 

In 1840 the present pastor, Rev. C. W. Shaeffer, settled 
in Harrisburg. 

All of these pastors preached both in the German and 
Engish languages, with the exception of the first two, who 
ministered in the German language alone. The present pas- 
tor continued the German service for two years subsequent 
to his taking charge of the church. In consequence of the 
increase of both the German and English branches of the 
church, an amicable separation was effected in the year 1843, 
when the German portion organized a new church, as will be 
seen by reference to the latter part of this article. 

Present number of communicant members under the pasto- 
ral care of Charles W. Shaeffer, is 4 17. The Sabbath School 
has 412 scholars, 55 teachers, and has a library of about 800 
volumes. It is under the superintendence of Mr. Peter 
Bernheisel. 



The Presbyterian Church. 

Previous to the year 1796, those inhabitants of Harris- 
burg, who believed in the doctrines of the Presbyterian 
Church, attended at, and were to a great extent, united with 
the Paxton church, a short distance from the town. Paxton 
church and Derry church were organized in 1720, which 
was a number of years before the settlement of Harrisburg. 
The first pastor of these two churches was the Rev. William 
Bartrara, of Ireland. In 1736 or 8, he was succeeded by 
Rev. John Elder, also from Ireland, who continued their 
pastor until his death, in 1792. In 1793 the Rev. Nathan- 
iel R. Snowden, a licentiate of the Presbytery of Philadel- 
phia, was ordained and installed pastor of the United Con- 
gregations of Derry and Paxton. Although Harrisburg 
was at this time visited statedly by Rev. Mr. Snowden for 
preaching, yet no congregation separate from the Paxton 
Church was organized until the year 1796, when Mr. Snow- 
den's connection with the Paxton and Derry congregations 
was dissolved, and he became the pastor exclusively of the 



HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 289 

congregation then organized in Harrisburg. A formal or- 
ganization of the Presbyterian church in Harrisburg then 
took place by the election and ordination of Mr. Samuel 
Weir and Mr. John Wilson, as Ruling Elders, and installing 
them together with Mr. Moses Gilmore, previously a Ruling 
Elder in the Paxton Church, as Ruling Elders of the Church 
m Harrisburg. Before the Court-house was built, the con- 
gregation worshipped in the loft of the old Jail, afterwards 
in the upper room of the Court-house. 

Soon after Mr. Snowden became pastor of the church, the 
importance of a church building was greatly felt. As it 
was very customary in those days to raise money for benevo- 
lent purposes, by means of lotteries— application was made 
to the Legislature of Penn'a. for permission to raise by lot- 
tery, a sum not exceeding $5,000, for the purpose of pur- 
chasmg a lot and building a house of worship for the use of 
the Presbyterian church of Harrisburg. Accordingly, March 
16, 1798, a law was passed, appointing, Robert Harris, Geo. 
W^hitehill, Christian Kunkel, William Graydon, Geo. Breni- 
zer, Adam Boyd, Archibald McAllister, and Samuel Elder, 
Commissioners for that purpose. The law provided that be- 
fore a ticket should be sold, the scheme should be laid before 
the Governor of Penn'a. and approved by him; that the 
commissioners should take an oath diligently and faithfully 
to perform their duties, and that at least three of them should 
attend at the respective drawings of each day, until comple- 
ted, so that, considering the strict provisions of the law, and 
the great respectability of the men charged with its execu- 
tion, there can be no doubt, the law was faithfully and hon- 
estly executed, however much the principle of lotteries is 
now reprobated. The scheme was completed and the draw- 
mg which was commenced on the 1st June, 1803, was finish- 
ed on the 7th of July following. 

The minutes of each meeting are signed by John Wright, 
Chief Clerk. 

On the 7th of June, 1804, the commissioners purchased 
the lot on which the church stands, for £400, and contracted 
soon after for the erection of the church, with Mr. William 
Glass. When the corner stone of the first edifice was laid, 
or when it was dedicated to the worship of God, cannot now 
be definitely ascertained. The house was built of brick 45 
by 60 feet. In 1816, a gallery was constructed around three 

25 



290 HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 

sides of the house, and in 1816 an addition of about 22 feet 
was added to the front, which was occupied by the Sabbath 
School and as a lecture room. 

On the 25th of June, 1805, the pastoral relation between 
Rev. Nathaniel R. Snowden, and the congregation was dis- 
solved on his application to the presbytery. (Rev. Mr. 
Snowden is alive and at present, Dec. 1845, residing in 
Harrisburg.) April 13, 1808, Mr. James Buchanan, a licen- 
tiate of the Presbytery of New Castle, received a call from 
the Harrisburg congregation for two thirds of his time, and 
from the congregation of Middle Paxton for one third. On 
the 29th of Sept. following he was ordained, and February 
12, 1809, was installed as pastor of the two congregations 
above named. He continued pastor until Sep. 10, 1815, 
when on his application, his connection was dissolved. In the 
language of the Rev. Dr. Dewitt, " Mr. Buchanan was 
" much esteemed by his congregation as a man of intelligence, 
" piety and an exceDenf preacher ; he wrote his sermons with 
" great care and committed them accurately to memory ; his 
*' style was remarkably sententious and his sermons short. 

" Under his ministry, the church was enlarged ; it became 
" established in the doctrines of the gospel ; after Mr. Buch- 
" anan closed his ministry in Harrisburg, he re mained for 
" some years without a charge, in consequence of ill health ; 
" when sufficiently restored he took charge of a congrega- 
" tion inGreencastle, Franklin county. Pa. ; afterwards he re- " 
" moved to Logansport, Indiana ; where he ceased from his 
" earthly labors, greatly beloved and respected." 

After Mr. Buchanan's resignation, the Harrisburg congre- 
gation remained vacant for three years. On the 5th of Oc- 
tober, 1818, the Rev. William R. Dewitt, a licentiate of the 
Presbytery of New York, received a unanimous call, to be- 
come their pastor ; he shortly after signified his intention to 
accept their call, and removed to Harrisburg in December, 
1818, and commenced to preach statedly to the congregation; 
on the 26th October, 1819, he was ordained to the gospel 
ministry, and on the 12th of November 1819, he was install- 
ed as pastor of the congregation. 

The congregation did not obtain a legal charter until 1818. 
During the winter of 1840-'41, the Trustees re-purchased of 
the heirs of Robert Sloan, a part of the original church lot, 
which had been sold to Mr. Sloan, and on which he had 



HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 291 

erected a three story brick house. In the spring of 1841, 
the old church was torn down, and the present church edifice 
was commenced. It was dedicated to the worship of God, 
on the l3th of February, 1842. It is constructed of brick, 
covered with white cement. Its dimensions are 63 feet by 
84 — adorned in front with a Grecian portico, supported by 
pillars of the Corinthian order. The basement story is above 
ground, and contains a lecture room, sabbath school room, 
and a studio, designed for the pastor. The audience cham- 
ber of the church is large and commodious, and with the gal- 
leries, will seat over one thousand persons. The pulpit Iront 
is of finely polished Italian marble, and the whole building is 
regarded as one of the handsomest churches in the county. 
The present number of communicant members is about 300. 
There is, in connection, a sabbath school, containing about 
225 scholars and 24 teachers, and has a library of about fif- 
teen hundred volumes* It is under the superintendence of 
Mr. James W. Wier. The temperance roll of the sabbath 
school, which was drawn up some years since by the super- 
intendent, now contains upwards of 400 names. 

The following is a list of the ruling elders elected, ordain- 
ed and installed since the foundation of the church, viz : 

Moses Gilmore, John Wilson, Samuel Wier, Adam Boyd, 
John Stoner, William Graydon, Joseph McJimpsey, Robert 
Sloan, Samuel Agnew, Richard T. Leech, John Charles 
Capp, Alexander Graydon, James W. Wier, Alexander Sloan, 
Samuel W. Hays, Alfred Armstrong, William McLean, and 
William Root. 

Messrs. Agnew, Leech, Capp and Graydon, are alive, but 
having removed from Harrisburg, the six last named gentle- 
men constitute the session of the church. 

Pastors of the church since foundation, viz ; 

Rev. Nathaniel R. Snowden, from 1796 to June 25, 1805. 

Rev. James Buchanan, February 12, 1809, to September 
10, 1815 

Rev. William R. Dewitt, D. D. November 12 1819— who 
still continues the pastor of the church. 



The Methodist Episcopal Church. 
The records of this church show that in 1802, this place 



292 HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 

was visited in circuit, statedly, by Rev. Jacob Gruber. In 
1810, the first society was formed. In October, 1818, the 
following persons constituted the church, viz: John Funk, 

Mitchell, Jane Mitchell, John Bond, Rebecca Bond, 

Harriet Henry, Amelia Henry, William Musgrave, B. Bar- 
ret, John Hosier, Alex. Buffington, John Rigg, Jane Wood, 
E. Wood, Louisa Power, Jacob M. Awl, Aurora Callender, 
Mary McMichael, Geo. Linkletter, John Burkett. 

In 1820, the society erected the brick building on the 
corner of South and Second streets ; in size 38 feet front by 
40 feet deep, at an expense of fifteen hundred dollars. Trus- 
tees at that time, John Bond, James Gallaher and John Funk. 
This church was dedicated in December, 1820. Preachers 
then on this circuit, Rev. J. Gruber and H. G. King. It 
continued to be a circuit church until 1834, when Reverend 
Francis Hodgson became the first stationed pastor : the so- 
ciety then consisted of one hundred and seventy-five members. 
The old church being inconveniently small, the society which 
continued to increase rapidly, in 1837 commenced the large 
and commodious church on Locust street : size 60 feet 6 
inches front, by 73 feet deep, cost f 9,459 24. It was ded- 
icated in August, 1838, the society then numbering 209 mem- 
bers. The old church was disposed of to the " United Bre- 
thren," who, after occupying the same for a few years, sold 
it to the " Sons of Temperance," who greatly enlarged and 
improved it, and now occupy it for their usual meetings. 

Pastors in charge since 1834, viz : 

Rev. Francis Hodgson, Robert Gerry, Thomas J. Thomp- 
son, William. Barnes, Joseph Ly brand, Anthony Atwood, 
Joseph Castle. 

Present number of communicant members, 370. The sab- 
bath school contains 215 scholars and 25 teachers. Library, 
500 volumes. 



The St. Stephen's (Episcopal) Church. 

This congregation was founded on the 16th day of Ma^, 
1826, by the following persons, who then constituted its 
members, viz : 

George B. Fisher, John B. Cox, William Mileham, Wil- 
liam Putnam, James Woodman, James S, Buchanan, James 



HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUKTY. 293 

Woodman, James S. Buchanan, James Peacock, Samuel 
Bryan, Alexander C. Wilson, John E. Forster and John De 
Pui. 

In 1827 they erected a very neat and substantial building 
of the Gothic order, on Front below Pine street ; in size 40 
feet front, by 60 feet deep, at an expense of $5000. In this 
church there is an organ of superior tone, and in the tower, 
one of the finest church bells in Harrisburg. 

The following is a list of its pastors, from its foundation 
to the present day: 

Rev. Messrs. Clemson, Curtis, Reynolds, Stern, Kelly, 
Major, and Coit. 

Present number of communicant members, 71. The sab- 
bath school contains one hundred scholars, and has a library 
of about 550 volumes. 



• The First Baptist Mission Church. 

The Rev. Dyer A. Nichols, under the direction of the 
Pennsylvania Baptist Board of Missions, arrived in Harris- 
burg, on the 19th of February, 1830 ; he sought out a few 
of the same faith. After sundry meetings in private houses, 
they agreed in council, on the 22d of March, A. D. 1830, to 
hold a meeting in the Unitarian church, which then stood 
where the Methodist church now stands in Locust street, 
near Third street, for the purpose of constituting themselves 
into a church ; that meeting was held on the 2d of April, 
1830 — But nine persons attended, viz: Rev. Dyer A. Nich- 
ols, Griffith E. Roberts, Mary Berry, Abagail Rittenhouse, 
Ann Wilkinson, Thomas Corbitt, Julia Thompson, and Fan- 
ny Phillips ; the meeting was opened with prayer by Rev. 
D. A. Nichols, and these individuals constituted themselves 
the " First Baptist Mission Church of Harrisburg;" the first 
baptism took place on the 4th July, 1830 — persons baptised, 
Levi L. Tate and Linn Banks ; by tht 19th Sep. following, 
their number increased to twenty-one ; Rev. Dyer A. Nichols 
continued in pastoral charge until Sept. 30th, 1830. 

In the fall of the same year (1830) this little congregation 
commenced the erection of a church on Front street, between 
Walnut and Locust streets, which was completed in August 
1831 ; it is a neat edifice of brick, 40 feet by 50 feet deep, 

25* 



294 HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 

having a fine school room in the basement. The original 
founders were William Griffith, Rev. D. A. Nichols, Griffith 
E. Roberts, and Jeremiah Rees ; cost of lot and erection of 
building $6,700 ; a large portion of which was contributed 
bj a worthy member of the church ; on the 18th day of Au- 
gust, 1831, the house was dedicated to the w^orship of God ; 
on the 30th Sep. Rev. George J. Miles of Centre county. Pa. 
took pastoral charge of the church which he retained until 
Feb. 24, 1835. 

The following is a list of the pastors since that time. 

Rev. Samuel Wilson, from April 24, 1835 to November 
22, 1835. 

Rev. Thomas G. Keene, a few months in 1836. 

Rev. Edward Kingsford, from Nov. 28, 1837 to Decem- 
ber 31, 1839. 

Rev. Matthew T. Scrapie, from Sept. 29, 1841 to April 
1846. 

Rev. Edward Connover, from August 11, 1844 to May 
21, 1845. 

At present, Dec. 1845, the congregation is without a pas- 
tor; though the number of communicant members has reached 
77, it is now reduced to about 40. The Sabbath School at- 
tached to the church, contained in the summer of 1 845, sixty 
scholars, and fourteen teachers, have a library of about five 
hundred volumes, and is under the superintendence of Mr. 
Adam Fahnestock. 



The German Lutheran St. Michael's Church. 

The difficulties in relation to Divine Services, in the Eng- 
lish and German languages, existing in the Evangelical Lu- 
theran Zion's Church of Harrisburg, led, (as has been previ- 
ously stated in this article) to an amicable separation between 
the English and German members, in the fall of 1842. Af- 
ter a number of preliminary meetings, the German portion 
who seceded from the church, formally organized and found- 
ed on the 8th of January, 1843 ; the present " German Lu- 
theran St. Michael's Church." At this meeting, the Rev. 
G. Mertz, was chosen pastor of the congregation ; on the 
22d Feb. following, a committee was appointed to draft 
rules for their governraant which were adopted on the 6th of 
July 1843. 



HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 295 

As the congregation had no church building of their own, 
they worshipped at times in the Court-house, old Methodist 
church, and in the German Reformed church, and Lecture 
Room. 

The congregation soon took measures to secure a building 
and having purchased a lot in 2d street, below Meadow lane, 
of Thomas Elder, Esq., appointed a building committee, con- 
sisting of John G. Jauss, Christian Maeyer, Jacob Boyer, 
Jacob Reever, and John Gastrock, with authority also to 
collect funds ; with their accustomed liberahty towards all 
good objects, the citizens of Harrisburg assisted their Ger- 
man Brethren, and several mechanics generously contributed 
in work and materials. Rev. G. Mertz's term having expir- 
ed, the congregation called the present pastor, Rev. J. Vogel- 
bach, then residing in Philadelphia, who was installed on the 
21st July, 1844. Soon after this the building committee 
contracted with Messrs. Jones and Zimmerman, for the erec- 
tion of the church ; the corner stone was laid on the 4th of 
May, 1844, and on the 15th of Sep. following, the house 
was dedicated to the worship of God. During the building 
of the church, extreme difficulties were experienced, and of- 
ten it was supposed that the enterprise would have to be 
abandoned. At this juncture, with a praiseworthy self-denial 
and dependence on God, four of the members, viz : Messrs. 
John G. Jauss, Christian Maeyer, Jacob Boyer and Frederick 
Gauch, advanced each one hundred and fifty dollars, makino- 
six hundred dollars in all, to enable the church to succeed. ^ 

The church is a handsome brick building, 3S feet by 60 
feet, with basement story, has a front gallery, organ, and 
Gothic windows, did cost together with the lot about $4000. 

A flourishing sabbath school is attached to the congrega- 
tion, under the superintendence of Mr. Nickerkis. In^I844 
the congregation was incorporated, and by their articles of 
incorporation, it is ordained that divine service shall be per- 
formed in the German language only. Present number of 
commimicant members, 200. 



The Catholic Church. 
Saint Patrick's Church was built in the year 1826 by the 



296 HISTOBY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 

Rev. Michael Curran. It is a beautiful edifice, with a hand- 
some tower and large bell, situated on State street, between 
2nd and 3rd streets. It was consecrated on the 2nd Octo- 
ber, 1827, by the Right Rev- Henry Conwell, then Bishop 
of the diocese it Philadelphia. Its size is about 50 by 75 
feet, and cost from 6 to 7000 dollars. Rev. Michael Curran 
was its first pastor, and was succeeded by Rev. John Foley, 
who held charge of it only a few months. The latter was 
succeeded by the present incumbent, the Rev. Pierce Maher, 
who has been pastor nearly nine years. The congregation 
numbers about 350 members, including from 50 to 60 chil- 
dren, who attend catechism, on Sundays, throughout the 
year. 



The Union Wesleyan Methodist Church. 



Composed of colored citizens, in Harrisburg, was organized 
under the pastoral care of the Rev. Jacob D. Richardson, on 
the 20th August, 1829. The organization took place in the 
old African church, a log building, still standing on the cor- 
ner of 3d and Mulberry streets. The founders of the church 
were John Baptist, David Jennings, David Dadford, Thomas 
Stewart, Joseph Williams. Members in 1829, 70. 

The following persons have since officiated as pastors of 
the church, viz : 

Revd. David Stevens, John P. Thompson, George Gal- 
breath, Solomon T. Scott, Samuel T. Gray, and at present, 
1845, Rev. Basil Mackall. 

The congregation, after struggling through many difficul- 
ties, succeeded in erecting a plain, but neat church, on Tan- 
ner's alley, to which they removed on the 24th November, 
-1839. Present number of communicant members, one hun- 
dred and eighty-five. The sabbath school contains nearly 
one hundred children, and has a library of about one hun- 
dred and fifty volumes. 



HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 297 



The Union Bethel.* 



This is a neat brick edifice, with a basement story, 40 by 
55 feet, situated on Mulberry street, between Front and Se- 
cond streets. A congregation, under the pastoral care of 
the Rev. John Winebrenner, erected this house in 1827. The 
Rev. Winebrenner was the pastor of this church for 6 years, 
when he was succeeded by Rev. David Crall. 

The following is a list of the stationed pastors of the 
church, since its first organization. 

Rev. John Winebrenner, from 1827 to 1833. 

Rev. David Crall, from 1833 to 1835. 

Rev. Edward West, from 1836 to 1838. 

Rev. E. H. Thomas and J. Keller, for 1839. 

Rev. John Wmebrenner, for 1840 and '41. 

Rev. E. H. Thomas, for 1842 and '43. 

Rev. George M'Cartney, for 1844 and '45. 

The members of this church number about one hundred. 
The Sabbath School connected with it, numbers about fifty 
scholars, and has a library of between 100 and 200 volumes. 

Recapitulation of the Harrisburg Churches. 

The German Reformed Church w^as founded in 1787: Pres- 
ent number of communicants, 200. Present Pastor, Revd. 
John F. Mesick. Pupils and Teachers of Sabbath School, 
225. Library, 800 volumes. 

The Evangelical Lutheran Church was founded in 1787 : 
Present number of communicants, 4l7. Present Pastor, Rev. 
C. W. Sheaffer. Pupils and Teachers of Sabbath School, 
225. Library, 600 volumes. 

The Presbyterian Church was founded in 1796: Present 
number of communicants, 300. Present Pastor, Rev. W. R. 
Dewitt, D. D. Pupils and Teachers of Sabbath School, 249. 
Library, 1500 volumes. 

• Repeated efforts had bpcn made, by Mr. Kelker, to obtain a fuller 
account than this, which I gleaned from authentic sources, a few days 
before this part was put to press. Compilbb. 



298 



HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



The Methodist Episcopal Church was founded in 1810 : 
Present number of communicants, 370. Present Paslor, Rev. 
Joseph Castle. Pupils and Teachers of Sabbath School, 240. 
Library, 500 volumes. 

The Episcopal Church was founded in 1826 : Present 
numbei of communicants, 71. Present Pastor, Rev. J. Coit. 
Pupils and Teachers of Sabbath School, 100. Library, 550 
volumes. 

The Baptist Mission Church was founded in 1830 : Pres- 
ent number of communicants, 40. They have no Pastor, at 
present. Pupils and Teachers of Sabbath School, 60. Li- 
brary, 500 volumes. 

The German Lutheran Church was founded in 1843 : 
Present number of communicants, 200. Present Pastor, Rev. 
J. Vogelbach. Pupils and Teachers of Sabbath School, 100. 

The Roman Catholic Church was founded in 1826: Pres- 
ent number of communicants, 350. Present Pastor, Rev. P. 
Maher. Pupils and Teachers of Sabbath School, 50. 

The Union Wesleyan Church was founded in 1829 : Pres- 
ent number of communicants, 185. Present Pastor, Rev. 
Basil Mackall. Pupils and teachers of Sabbath School, 100. 
Librai'y, 150 volumes. 

The Union Bethel Church was founded in 1827 : Present 
number of communicants, 100. Present Pastor, George M'- 
Cartney. Pupils and Teachers of Sabbath School, 40. Li- 
brary, 200 volumes. 



CHAPTER XX. 

FORT HUNTER, FORT HALIFAX, &C. 

A number of Forts erected during 1 753-'59— Fort Hunter, or McAllis- 
ter's— Extract from Shippen's letter touching Fort Hunter— Brain' 
erd's visit here — Petition, &c. touching the evacuation of Fort Hun- 
ter—Commissary Burd here — Conrad Weiser here (then Chambers') 
and delivers a message to the Indians from Shamokin ; proceedings 
ai, &c. — Present condition of — Duke de la Rochefoucault visits Mc- 
Allister's — Brushy Rockville, notice of— Halifax — Fort Halifax — 
Indian conference at— Gov. Morris' orders and instructions to Col. 
Clapham to build a Fort at Armstrong's camp — Clapham's letter to 
Gov. Morris— Clapham's orders to Captain Miles — David Jameson's 
letter— McKee's Fort or trading house noticed—Shamokin or Fort 
Augusta. 

During the French and Indian war a number of lorts, 
blockhouses and stoccades were erected along the frontiers 
of the upper part of Lancaster county, (now Dauphin and 
Lebanon), for the defence and protection of the settlers. — 
Fort Hunter, of considerable importance, was situated at the 
mouth of Fishing creek,. originally settled by the Cham- 
berses;* but now well known as McAllister's. 

There was a line of forts and blockhouses built by the 
provincial government between 1752 and 1760, extending 
from the Delaware river to the Potomac. Those on the east 
side of the Susquehanna w^ere Fort Hunter, Fort Swatara, 
24 miles from the former ; Fort Henry, fourteen miles from 
Swatara ; Fort Williams, twenty-two miles from F. Henry ; 
Fort Everit, twelve miles from F. Williams; next was a 

• When the Rev. David Brainerd was a missionary among the Indi- 
ans he lodged all night at Chambers's. In his Memoirs and Journal, 
he says, under date of August 20th (Wednesday) 1746; Rode this day 
to one Chambers's, upon the Susquehanna, and there lodged. Was 
much afflicted in the evening with an ungodly crew, drinking, swear- 
ing, &c. Oh what a IM would it be to be numbered among the ungodly! 
— Brainerd' s Memoirs, p. 376. 



300 HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 

Blockhouse, ten miles from Fort Everit ; Fort Allen, at 
Weisport, twenty miles from the Blockhouse ; Fort Lehigh, 
ten miles from F. Allen ; Depui's Fort, twenty-eight miles 
from F. Lehigh. Up along the Susquehanna were Fort Hali- 
fax, McKee's Fort, and Fort Augusta at Shamokin, all gar- 
risoned according as the exigencies of the times demanded it, 
and when the men were to be had. Forts westward of the 
Susquehanna will be noticed in the sequel. 

The following letter from Colonel Weiser to the Governor, 
shows the disposition of the forces in the several Fo;ts, men- 
tioned in the communication. 

Heidelberg, in Berks county, July 11, 1756. 
Honored Sir : 

Immediately after my return from Philadelphia, I sent orders to 
the captains Busse, Morgan and Smith to meet me at Fort Henry on 
the 9th inst. to consult together on certain measures how to oppose the 
enemy from killing the people in reaping and gathering in their har- 
vest. The evening before, 8th inst. Mr. Young arrived with your Hon- 
or's orders to me; I therefore set out next morning about 5 o'clock for 
Fort Henry in company with Mr. Young, as tar as Benj. Spycker's. I 
arrived at Fort Henry at 10 o'clock; Capt. Busse met me with an es- 
cort of eight men on horseback about six miles on this side of Fort 
Henry; about 11 o'clock Capt. Morgan and Smith arrived. I imme- 
diately made your Honor's orders known to them ; and the disposition 
was made. That eight men of Capt. Smith's company shall assist the 
people in the Hole (the place where murders have twice been commit- 
ted) to gather in their harvest, and stay over night in the Moravian 
House. Eight of his men are to range westward of his Fort under the 
Hill, and if occasion require to be stationed in two parties to guard the 
reapers. Sixteen men are lo be in, and about the Fort, to help and pro- 
tect the neighbors ; but constantly ten out of the sixteen are to stay in 
the Fort ; and six men to range eastward from Manady towards Swaia- 
ra; and six men to range westward towards Susquehanna ; each party is 
to advance so far, that they may reach their Fort again before night. 
Capt. Busse's company, stationed as follows : ten men at Bernhard Tri- 
del's, next to the Moravians ; eight men at Caspar Snebelies ; six men at 
Daniel Shue's or Peter Klop's. All these are westward of Fort Henry. 
Eastward, Capt. Busse is to post four men at Jacob Stein's ; three men 
at Ulrich Spies; six men at the widow Kendal's; the rest, consisting: 
of nineteen men, to remain in the Fort. Capt. Morgan's company as 
follows: Six men lo range from the Little Fort on Northkill, wejtward 
to Emerich's ; and stay there if the people unite to work together in 
their harvest. Six men to range eastward on the same fooling. Eight 
men to stay in that Fori. Fifteen men are to stay in Fort Lebanon; 
eight lo protect the people over the Hill in harvest time. Ten men to 
range constantly eastward or westward; and if the people return to 
their plantations thereabouts, to protect those first that join together 
to do their work. 
All the aforesaid men are posted as much in a range as was possi- 



HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 301 

ble, and would suit the settlements best. Your Honor will observe that 
there are not men enough left in the Forts to change or relieve the men 
on duty; but scarce sufficient to keep the Forts and send provisions to 
the several posts. 

I did propose to the captains to make a draft of about twenty -five 
men out of the three companies, and send them over the hills to a cer- 
tain place on Kind creek, to lie in ambush there for the enemy about 
ten days ; but the large frontier which they have to guard with their 
men would not admit of it at this time ; I was therefore obliged to give 
hp that point. A great number of the back inhabitants came to the 
Fort that day and cried out for guards. Their situation is indeed des- 
perate ; about forty men from Tulpehocken have been out for iheir pro- 
lection; but they soon got tired ; and raised disputes and quarrels in 
order to get home again. 

I hear that the people over Susquehannah will have protection, cost 
what it will. If they can't obtain it from the English, they will send 
to the French for it. I believe, from what I heard, that some on this 
side of the river, are of the same opinion ; at least there is much mum- 
bling among the back inhabitants. 

I must mention to your Honor that when the people about Swatara 
and the Hole heard of Capt. Smith's being accused for tieglect of duty, 
they wrote a letter to me in his favor, which I sent by Sammy Weiser, 
who can translate it if your Honor orders him to it. I also sent a let- 
ter from Capt. Busse, which contains the particulars of the last mur- 
der. I received it by the way coming from Philadelphia, and stopped 
the Express, as it was only directed to me, in order to save charges. 

As I had no clerk for some time, I wrote a genera! letter yesterday 
to all the commanding officers eastward from Fort Henry to Easton, 
with a copy of your Honor's orders inclosed. I could not send every 
one a copy, but ordered them to take it themselves and send it forward 
immediately. 

Just this moment, my son Sammy arrived from Fort Henry and tells 
me that there had been an engagement at Caghnekacheeky, where 
twelve on our side were killed, and six Indians ; that our people kept 
the field and scalped the Indians, and that the Indians ran off without 
any scalps. As bad news as it is, I wish it may be true. I have at 
present no more to trouble your Honor with, but am, 
Sir, your very obedient 

and humble servant, 

CoNKAD Weiser. 

P. S. I should have told your Honor that I keep a sergeant with nine 
private men of my company at Fort Henry under Capt. Busse, with 
the proviso that they shall stay in the Fort and defend it when the Cap- 
tain's men are on their several posts or ranging. The Captain must 
keep a ranging party all along. To-morrow another sergeant marches 
from Reading with nine men to relief those of my company that have 
been out now two weeks. C. W. 

The precise locality of Fort Hunter is now not "exactly" 
known. It stood, according to a letter fium Edward Ship- 
pen, April 19, 1756, " five or six hundred feet from Hun- 

26 



302 



HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



ter's house." It was surrounded by an entrenchment ; which 
however, in 1763, was level with the ground. The Revd. 
John Elder, then also Col. Elder, in writing to Gov. Hamil- 
ton, under date of October 25, 1763, says, " I have always 
kept a small party of men stationed at Hunter's, still expect- 
ing they would have been replaced by 18 or 20 of the Au- 
gusta troops, as your honor was pleased once to mention ; 
and, if that post is designed to be maintained, as the en- 
trenchment thrown up there, in the beginning of the late 
troubles, is now level with the ground, it will be absolutely 
necessary to have a small stoecade erected there to cover the 
men, which may be done at an inconsiderable expense." 

From all the facts, now to be found on record, it appears, 
though the situation was a desirable one for a fort, it was 
not a well built one. 

According to the Commissary general's return in Novem- 
ber 1756, the state of the garrison at Fort Hunter, was as 
follows, viz : Two Sergeants, 34 privates ; Ammunition, 4 
pounds of powder, 28 pounds of lead ; Provisions, 1000 
weight of flour, 2000 pounds of beef: — two men's time up. 

In council, 25th of August, 1757, a petition was received 
from the inhabitants of the township of Paxton, setting forth 
that the evacuating of Fort Hunter is of great disadvantage 
to them, that Fort Halifax is not necessary to secure the 
communication with Fort Augusta, and is not so proper a 
station for the Batteaux parties as Fort Hunter, and praying 
the governor would be pleased to fix a sufficient number of 
men at Hunter's under the command of an active officer, 
with strict orders to range the frontiers daily. 

The Rev. John Elder addressed the following letter to 
Richard Peters, Esq., Secretary in relation to this subject : 

Paxton, 30th July, 1757. 
Sir- 
As we of this township have petitioned the Governor for a removal 
of the garrison from Halifax to Hunter's, I beg the favor of you to use 
your interest with his Honor in our behalf. The defence of Halifax 
is no advantage ; but a garrison at Hunter's, under the command of an 
active officer, will be of great service ; it will render the carriage of 
provisions and ammunition for the use of Augusta, more easy and less 
expensive ; and by encouraging the inhabitants to continue in their 
places, will prevent the weakening of the frontier seulemenis ; we 
have only hinted at these things in the petition, which you will please 
to enlarge on in conversation with the governor, and urge in such a 
manner as you think proper. 'Tis well known that representations 



HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



303 



from the back inhabitants have but little weight with the gentlemen in 
power, the}' looking on us, either as incapable of forming just notions 
of things, or as biassed by selfish views: however, I am satisfied that 
you, sir, have more tavorable conceptions of us ; and that from the 
knowledge you have of the sitnation of the places mentioned in our pe- 
tition, you will readily agree with us and use your best offices with the 
governor, to prevail with him to grant it; and you will very much 
oblige, 

Sir, your most obedient 

and humble servant, 

JoBX Eldeb. 

While this question was pending in council, Commissary 
Young attended and informed the governor and council that 
Fort Halifax is a very bad situation, being built beyond two 
ranges of hills, and no body living near it, none could be 
protected by it ; that it is no station for Batteaux parties, 
having no command of the channel, which runs close on the 
western shore, and is, besides, covered with a large island 
between the channel and the fort, so that numbers of the 
enemy may, even in day time, Rin down the river, without 
being seen by that garrison — he further said, that, though 
the fort or blockhouse at Hunter's was not tenable, being 
hastily erected and not finished, yet the situation was the 
best upon the river for every service, as well as for the pro- 
tection of the frontiers. — Prov. Rec. Q. 134. 

The Indians made several incursions near to Fort Hunter 
and killed a man in the fall of 1757. Bartram Galbreath, 
says, in a letter dated. Hunter's Fort, October 1st, 1757 — 
''Notwithstanding the happy condition we thought this 
place in, on Captain Busse's being stationed here, we have 
had a man killed within twenty rods of Hunter's barn. We 
all turned out, but night coming on so soon, we could make 
no pursuit. We have advice from Fort Henry by express to 
Captain Busse, that the Indians are seen in large bodies, 
sixty together. 

When Colonel James Burd visited Fort Hunter, in Feb'y 
1758, he says, "he found Captains Patterson and Davis here 
with eighty men. The Captains informed me that they had 
not above three loads of ammunition a roan — I ordered, he 
says, Mr. Barney Hughes to send up here a barrel of pow- 
der and lead answerable ; in the meantime, borrowed of Tho- 
mas Gallagher four pounds of powder and one hundred pounds 
of lead. I ordered a review of the garrison to-morrow morn- 
ing at 9 o'clock. 



304 



HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



" Sunday 19 — Had a review this mornihg of Capt. Patter- 
son's company, and found them complete, fifty three men, 
forty-four province arms, and forty-four cartouch boxes — no 
powder, nor lead. I divided one half pint of powder, and 
lead in proportion, to a man. I found in this fort 4 month's 
provision for the garrison. 

" Captain Davis with his party of fifty-five men was out 
of ammunition. I divided one half pint of powder and lead 
in proportion to them. Captain Davis has got twelve hun- 
dred weight of flour for the batteaux. Sundry of the bat- 
teaux are leaking, and must be left behind. Captain Pat- 
terson cannot scout at present for want of officers ; 1 order- 
ed him to apply to the country to assist him to stoccade the 
fort agreeable to their promise to his honor, the governor. 
There are three men sick here." 

Fort Hunter (or Hunter's Mills) was a place whence 
much provision was taken up and down the Susquehanna for 
provincial purposes, in canoes or batteaux. The folloming 
is a list of canoes hired, June 23, 1763, for the transporta- 
tion of provisions and ammunitions, Irom Fort Hunter or 
Hunter's mills to Fort Augusta. 

From Alexander Laferty one, at 17 shillings and 6 pence; 
Robert Samuel one, at 12 shilling ; James Chambers two, at 
£1 ; John Simpson one, at 10 shillings ; Thomas Chambers 
one, at 10 shillings; George Allen one, at 10 shillings; 
John Likens one, at 10 shillings ; James Patterson, at 10 
shillings ; and Jaames Barkens one, at 10 shillings ; besides 
two batteaux belonging to the Province. 

This place was of some note even while Joseph Chambers 
resided here. In 1749, Conrad Weiser delivered a message 
to the Indians who had come from Shamokin. 

Memorandum of the message delivered to the Indians of Shamokin, at the house 
of Joseph Chambers, in Paxton, by Conrad Weiser, 

There were present — Shickelimy, Taghneghdorrus, Caniadarogan, 
Scaienties, (a man of note among the Cayjukers.) 
Brethren : 

You that live at Zinachson (Shamokin) I am sent to you by your 
brethren, the President and his council of Philadelphia, to pay you a 
visit and to acquaint you of what passes among the white people, also 
to inform myself how you do, and what passes among the Indians in 
these critical times. 

Gave a tiring of wampum. 



HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY, 305 

Brethren: 

In the first place I am to acquaint you that your friend and coun- 
tryman, JohnPenn, the eldest son of Great Onas, died last winter in Eng- 
land on his bed, and with a contented mind, and as his death must 
needs affect you, as it did us, being you are sensible he always has 
been a true friend to the Indians — I give you these handkerchiefs to 
wipe off your tears. 

Gave twelve handkerchiefs. 
Brethren : 

I also inform you that your brother Gov. Thomas, has left us and is 
gone to England ; not out of any ill will or disgust ; but for the sake of 
his health; he has been ill ever since the treaty of Lancaster The 
doctors of this;§puntry could do no good to him. He is in hopes that 
the air of his native country, and the assistance of some skilful doctor 
there will give him ease ; he went away a good friend of the people of 
Pennsylvania and of his brethren the Indians, and will do them what 
service he can when in England. 

Laid a string of wampum. 
Brethren : 

Notwithstanding the governor is gone, the same correspondence 
will be kept up with all the Indians, by the President and council of 
Philadelphia ; they resume the same power with their President as if 
the governor vere here ; and the body of the people heartily joins them 
to keep up a good correspondence with all the Indians. According to 
the treaties of friendship subsisting between us, your old and assured 
friend, James Logan, is also in being yet, although he laid aside all pub- 
lic business as to the white people, in Indian affairs, he assists the coun- 
cil, and will not lay that aside as long as he is alive and able to advise; 
in confirmation thereof 

I laid as tring of wampum. 
Brethren : 

There was a trunk found in one of the rooms where your friend 
John Penn used to lodge when in Philadelphia, with some clothes in it, 
and as he has been gone for several years and the clothes were not 
spoiled, your friend, the Secretary, changed them for new ones, and 
sent them up to me to give to the Indians at Zinachson (Shamokin) to 
wear them out in remembrance of their good friend and countryman 
John Penn, deceased. 

Gave ten strotcd match coats and twelve shirts. 
Brethren : 

I have at present no more to say. January the 17, 1747. 

After about fifteen minutes Shickeiimy made answer — Directed his 
discourse to the President and council of Philadelphia, and said: 
Brethren ; 

We thank you for this kind visit ; we longed to hear of you, and 
to inform ourselves of the truth of things reported among us. Some 
few of us intended a visit to Philadelphia this summer for that purpose? 
we are pleased with what has been said ; and will give you a true ac- 
count this day of all what passes among the Indians. 

We then broke up for about an hour. 

Then Shickeiimy informed me in the presence of the others before 
mtfationed, that in the beginning of last spring, some of the Zisiage- 

26* 



30& 



HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



chroann came to treat at Oswego, with a message from their whole na- 
tion, joined by the rest of the Indians, about the lakes of Canada, to 
the Six United Nations— To the following purport, viz : 

Brethren : 

The United Nations — We have hitherto been kept like prisoners 
on the othe side of the Lake, Onontio,* our father told us that if we 
should treat with the English, he could look upon it as a breach of the 
peace with him. Now we come to let you know that we will no more 
be stopt from treating with your brethren, the English. We will join 
with you to support the House of Oswego, when the goods that the In- 
dians want, are so plenty — all the Indians about the Lakes will join, 
and if need, take up the hatchet against our foolish father Onontio, 
whenever you require it ; his goods are very dear, and he is turned 
malicious; because he sees our women and children clothed fine in 
English cloths bought at Oswego. We have already let him know, that 
we want no more of his advice, as we did formerly, when we were 
young; but that we became now men and would think for ourselves, 
so let the consequence be what it will. In confirmation of the above 
speech, the said deputies laid several fine tobacco pipes adorned with wam- 
pum and fine feathers. 

They had an agreeable answer from the Six Nation council. Th 
Six Nations have received messages from other nations to the sam* 
purport, all promising to engage in favor of the Six Nations and ih^ 
House of Oswego. 

Note. — The Zistagechroann are a numerous nation to the north of the 
Lake Frontenac, they don't come by Niagara in their way to Oswego 
but right across the Lake. 

Shickelimy told me further that of late a council was held at Onon- 
dago, by the Six Nations, in which it was agreed to sendfaj.message to 
Canada, of the last importance; and that also a message was sent to 
Albany to desire their brethren, the English, to tie their canoes or bat- 
teaux for a few days to the bushes, and not to proceed in their expedi- 
tion against Canada, till their messengers came back from Canada, 
which would clear off the clouds, and the United Nations would then 
see what was to be done. 

Scaienties informs me that a few days before he came away from Cayi- 
uckquor (which was about the twentieth day of May last) a message 
arrived at the Cayiucker county, and the Senickers,from the command- 
ing officer at the French Fort of Niagara, inviting those two nations 
to come and pay him a visit, and to receive a fine present which their 
father Onontio had sent those two nations. He having understood that 
the large presents he had made to the Six Nations frcim time to time 
were withheld by the Onondagoes and Mohocks, of whom he had been 
informed that they are corrup»<'d by the English, by which, and what 
they had received form Onontio they had enriched themselves, and 
cheated the other nations in union with them. 

That some of the two nations were actually gone to Niagara to re- 
ceive the presents and were set out the same day when Scaienties came 
away. 

War against the French, in Canada, was not declared by the Six Na- 

• The Indians called the French Onontios. — Compiler. 



HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 307 

lions when Scaienties came away, and as yet uncertain when it would 
be done, at least not before the arrival of their messenger, and perhaps 
not this summer. The Sinickers and Cayiuckers are against it; the 
Mohocks are for it very much ; the Onontagers have declared in open 
council last spring never to leave the Mohocks their eldest brother and 
founder of the Union — The Oneiders and Tuscarroras will follow the 
Onontagers example. 

This is what Shickelimy assures not to be trne. 

The Mohocks engaged themselves in the war against the French, on 
their own accord, without the approbation of the Six Nations council, 
they having been over-persuaded by their brethren, some of the white 
people at Albany, and by the force of presents prevailed upon the 
council of the Six Nations, does not altogether like it, but think it loo 
rashly of the Mohocks. 

Shickelimy and Scaienties wonder at the dexterity of the French to 
have intelligence of the declaration of the Onontagoes in council, and 
so soon had presents at Niagara, and a message in the Sinickers coun- 
try, but both say, the Six Nations will after all stick together notwith- 
standing the presents received from the French. 

Tiie five French Indian traders that were killed on the south side of 
Lake Erie, have been killed by some of the Six Nations (then called 
Accquanusliioony, the name which the Six Nations give their people, 
signifies a Confederate). Another French trader has since been killed 
in a private quarrel with one of the Jonontatochraanu, likewise be- 
tween the river Ohio and the Lake Erie. The Frenchman ofl'ered but 
one charge of powder and one bullet for a beaver skin to the Indian, 
the India;! took up his hatchet and knocked the Frenchman on his 
head and killed him on the spot, 

This is all the news that can be depended on — several more stories 
I heard not worth while to trouble the council with, as there was no 
confirmation of them. 

CoNBAD WeISEH. 

The above report was read in council July 9, 1747. — Provincial 
Records. 

McAllister^s or McjSllister's town, the name by which 
the place is now known, in Susquehanna township, contains 
some twelve or fifteen dwellings, a grist mill, two saw mills, 
a church and a school house. 

McAllister, after whom the place is called, purchased a 
farm of 300 acres about the year 1785; and kept for some 
time a public house. Duke de la Rochefoucault Liancourt,* 
a French traveller, on a tour to see the country, who passed 

• Mr. Graydon, in his Memoirs, speaks of the Duke — "In the spring 
or summer of 1795, a letter was delivered by a gentleman at my house 
(in Harrisburg) which gave me the opportunity of a transient acquain- 
tance with the Duke de la Rochefoucault Liancourt, who, being on a tour 
It- see the country, was recommended to my attentions." — Graydon't 
Memoirs, p. 346. 



308 HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 

up the Susquehanna in 1796, speaks of McAllister's place — 
^'McAllister owns about 300 acres — about 120 cultivated. — 
Price of lands near him is $8 for woodland ; $50 for clear- 
ed. The houses, all of wood except the Inn which stands 
on th^ Susquehanna and in the precincts of Fort Hunter, 
erected many years ago." 

Brushy Rockville, a post village, on the Susquehanna 
river, is of recent origin — of a few years growth — laid out 
by a Miss McAllister at the base of the Kittaning or Blue 
mountain, between the river and canal. It consists of some 
thirty or more dwellings, principally weatherboarded and 
painted white — three stores, one tavern. Formerly, Mr. 
Baldwin carried on an extensive foundry contiguous to 
the village. One has a commanding view of the Susque- 
hanna from here, and of a very romantic scenery. 

Halifax is on the Susquehanna river, seventeen miles, in 
a direct line from Harrisburg. It was laid out by Messrs. 
George Sheaffer and Peter Rise, in 1794, and named after 
Fort Halifax, which had been erected by Colonel William 
Clapham, according to the instruction of Governor Morris, 
in June 1756. The fort was built at the mouth of Arm- 
strong's creek, about half a mile above the town. " There 
is, says VV. Mitchell, nothing remaining to mark the place 
except that the ground is a little raised, and there is a well 
at the place — it was on the farm now owned by Mr. Joseph 
Geiger of Halifax." The town is in Armstrong Valley, 
and pleasantly situated ; the Wisconisco canal passing be- 
tween it and the river; it contains ninety dwellings, and 
twenty-seven shops of all kinds, one church, Methodist; two 
school houses, an " Odd Fellows Hall," four stores, four 
taverns — Mechanics of " various trades," viz : cabinet ma- 
kers, blacksmiths, shoemakers, tailors, coopers, segar ma- 
kers, saddlers, a gunsmith, a wagon maker, a broom maker, 
a chair maker; one Printing ofhce, from which the "Hali- 
fax Herald" is issued; two justices of the peace, two phy- 
sicians, two preachers of the gospel, Methodist and German 
Reformed. 

Opposite the town is an island occupied by Leonard Clem- 
son, noted for an "Indian Mound," which, it is said to con- 
tains the remains of Indians. 

The following, from the Public Records, is here introdu- 



HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 309 

ced, to afford the reader some idea as to the plan &c. of the 
Fort at the mouth of Armstrong's creek. 

Col. William Clapham had been here some time before 
he received definite instructions to erect a Fort. He 
held a conference with an Indian chief of the Iroquois na- 
tion, June 10, 1756, as appears from the following minutes : 

At a conference held at the camp at Armstrong's, June 10, 1756, be- 
tween Col. William Clapham, and Oghaghradisha, an Indian chief of 
the Iroquois on the waters of Susquehanna. 

Present— Captains Lloyd and Shippen ; Interpreters, James Lowry 
and Lewis Montour. 
My Brother, 

Col. Johnston at my departure told me, thus brother, I find great 
difficulties in governing and supplying the wants of the Six Nations, 
in connection with me, 'tis therefore impossible I should also take 
charge of those seated at a distance on the waters of the Susquehanna, 
for which reason, I have recommended them by you, and this string of 
wampum to Col. Clapham (or Ugcarunthiunth) for that purpose. 
Brother, 

The Iroquois living on the North branch of Susquehanna have 
sent me as a representative of the whole, to treat with you (producing 
a belt of wampum) and will ratify all my contracts. Brother, they 
agree to your building a Fort at Shamokin, but are desirous that you 
should also build a Fort three days journey, in a canoe, higher up, the 
North Branch, in their country, at a place called " Adjouquay," and 
this belt of wampum is to clear the road to that place. 
Brother, 

If you agree to my proposals in behalf of my nation, I will return 
and iaimediately collect our whole force to be employed, in protecting 
your people while you are building a fort in our country at Adjouquay, 
where there is a good situation and fine soil at the entrance of a deep 
creek on a level plain five miles extending, and clear of woods. " Ad- 
jouquay is fourteen miles above Wioming, and an old woman may car- 
ry a heavy pack of skins from thence to the Minisink, and return to 
Adjouquay in two nights. 
My Brother — 

The land is troubled, and you may justly apprehend danger, but if 
you will grant our request we will be together, and if any danger hap- 
pens to you, we will share it with you. My Brother, I have known 
this young man a good while (pointing to James Lowry) and have 
travelled far with him : he is a proper man, and knows the country 
well. I should be glad to recommend him as a companion on the 
march. ? 

My Brother, (laying down a belt of wampum folded in the middle) 
this describes your path to Shamokin ; (unfolding the belt and ex- 
tending it to its full length) this is your road to Adjouquay. 

Upon which he presented a belt, and offered his little son as a pledge 
of his fidelity, insisting at the same time that Col. Clapham should visit 
their town, escorted by their warriors, who despising to turn out of their 



^0 HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 

way, would conduct him thro' the Delaware town, to their village, in 
defiance of all opposition whatever. [Prov. Rec. 0.] 

Orders and Instructions to Col. W. Clapham. 

1. With these instructions you will receive a number of 
blank commissions, under my hand and seal, for subaltern of- 
ficers in your regiment, •which you are hereby empowered to 
fill up, with the names of such men as you judge most fit for 
the service, having regard to the merit and services of those 
already employed ; taking care that they be of the Protestant 
religion, and well affected to his Majesty's government, and 
you will administer to them the oaths to the government, as 
your name is inserted in the General Dedimus ior this Pro- 
vince, under the Great Seal, or cause Major Burd to do it. 

2. Herewith you will also receive two plans of Forts; the 
o-ne a Pentagon, the other a square, with one Ravelin to pro- 
tect the curtain where the gate is, with a ditch covered way 
and glacis; but as it is impossible to give any explicit direc- 
tions to the particular form of a fort without viewing and 
considering the ground on which it is to stand, I must leave 
it to you to build it in such form as will best answer for its 
own defence, the command of the river, and of the country in 
i*.s neighborhood ; and the plans herewith will serve to show 
the proportion that the different parts of the works should 
bear to each other. 

3. As to the place upon which this fort is to be erected, 
that must be in a great measure left to your judgment; but 
it is necessary to inform you it is must be on the east side of 
the Susquehanna; the lands on the west, at the Forks, be- 
tween the branches, not being purchased from the Indians ; 
besides it would be impossible to relieve and support a garri- 
son on that side in the winter time : from all the information 
I have been able to collect, the land on the south side of the 
east branch, opposite to the middle of the island, is the high- 
est of any of the lowland thereabout, and the best place for 
a fort. The guns you have with you will form a rampart of 
a moderate height, commanding the main river. But as this 
information comes from persons not acquainted with the na- 
ture of such things, I am fearfid they are not much to be de- 
pended on, and your own judgment must therefore direct 
you. 

4. When you have completed the fort, you will cause the 



HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 311 

ground to be cleared about it, to a convenient distance, and 
openings to be made to the river, and you will erect such 
buildings within the fort, and place there in such a manner 
as you shall judge best. 

5. Without the fort, at a convenient distance, under the 
command of the guns, it will be necessary to build some log 
houses for Indians, that they may have places to lodge in, 
without being in the fort, where numbers of them, however 
friendly, should not be admitted, but in a formal manner, and 
the guard turned out ; this will be esteemed a compliment by 
our friends, and if enemies should at any time be concealed 
under that name, it will give them proper notions of our vig- 
ilance, and prevent them from attempting to surprise it. 

6. In your march up the river you will take care not to be 
surprised, and always to have your forces in such a disposi- 
tion that you may retreat with safety. 

7. You will make the best observations you can of the riv- 
er and the most difficult passes you meet with in your way 
as well by land as water, which you will note upon the map 
I gave you , that it may be thereby amended, and furnish me 
with your opinion of the best manner of removing or sur- 
mounting those difficulties. 

8. If you should be opposed in your march, or gain any in- 
telligence of the a pproach of an enemy, for that or any other 
purpose, you will inform me by express of such intelligence or 
opposition, the situation you are in, and every thing else ma- 
terial that I may send you proper assistance, and be prepared 
for any thing that may happen, and in the meantime you are 
to use your best endeavors to oppose the enemy and to se- 
cure yourself. 

9. As soon as you are in possession of the ground at Sha- 
mokin, you will secure yourself a breast work in the best 
manner you can, so that your men may work in safety, and 
you will inform me of your arrival there, and let me know 
what you will have occasion for, that I may apply to the 
commissioners to supply it. 

10. You will order the company and others in whose 
hands you may trust any of the public provisions, or stores, 
to be careful and exact in the distribution thereof, and to 
keep exact accounts of every thing committed to their care. 

11. Having suspected hostilities against the Delaware In- 
dians on the east side of the North East Branch of Susque- 



312 HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 

hanna, in order to enter into a treaty with them, I send you 
herewith a Proclamation for that purpose to which you will 
conform, and any friendly Indians that may join you in your 
march, or at Shamokin you wdl treat with kindness and sup- 
ply them out of the Province stores with such things as they 
want and you are able to spare- 

12. Having sent the Indians, New Castle and Jagree again 
to the town of Diahoga, accompanied with some of the Jer- 
sey Delawares, all our friends, who may and probably will 
return by the Susquehannah, you will in about a fortnight 
after this, cause a look out to be kept for them, and if they 
return that way, you Mill receive and assist them in their 
journey. Their signal will be a red flag with "union" in 
the corner, or if that should be lost, they will carry " Green 
boughs " or " Club'd muskets," will appear open and erect 
and not approach you in the night. 

R. H. Morris. 

Given under my hand and seal at Arms Philadelphia, this 
12th day of June, 1756. 

Camp at Armstrong's, June 20, 1756. 
To Gov. Morris : 

Sir — I received your Honor's of the 12th inst., together 
with your Honor's instructions, your Honor's answer to the 
Indian Sachem, six blank commissions, and two plans of for- 
tification. Your inst: uctions I shall obey with the utmost 
pleasure and punctuality. Your answer I delivered with 
due solemnity. In filling up the commissions I shall be par- 
ticularly careful to regard your Honor's directions; when 
arrived at the ground I shall conform as near as possible to 
the plans, and hope I shall find no difficulty in the execution 
which industry and application may not surmount, and shall 
rely on your Honor for the supplies necessary during that 
time. The progress already made in this Fort rendeis it im- 
practicable for me to comply with the commissioners desire 
to contract it, at which I am more surprised, as I expected 
every day orders to enlarge it, it being as yet, in my opinion 
too small. I shall leave an officer and thirty men with or- 
ders to finish it when I march from hence, which will be 
with all possible expedition after the arrival of the blankets, 
the rum and the money for payment of Battoe-men, for want 



HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 313 

of which, I am obliged to detain them here in idleness, not 
thinking it prudent to trust them on another trip, for fear of 
their desertion, which may totally impede the service. I 
could wish the commissioners would invent some expedient to 
pay these men without money, or at least without the dan- 
ger of trusting me with their money, the charge of which I 
am not ambitious of, or the much envied honor and trouble 
of expending it — this far is certain, that without such expe- 
dient, or the money, we cannot stir. 

I have, pursuant to your Honor's command, sent down two 
Indian Sachems properly escorted, and committed particu- 
larly to the care of Mr. Shippen, and hope his coming will 
fully answer the ends proposed by your Honor and your 
council. I have found Capt. McKee extremely useful, and 
have sent him also at the Sachem's particular request. 

The carpenters are still employed in building Battoes and 
carriages for the canoes, and every body seems disposed 
cheerfully to contribute their services towards the public 
good, if there ever was any any prospect or assurance of be- 
ing paid for it. From your Honor's character of Capt. 
Busse, I am extremely sorry the Commissioners have not 
thought proper to comply with your Honor's proposal. I 
assure myself, your Honor, will omit no opportunity of ex- 
tricating me from embarrassments arising from the want of 
money, both for the Battoe men and the soldiers; twenty-six 
of whom being Dutch (German) are now in confinement for 
mutiny on that very account. I am with all respect, your 
Honor's obedient humble servant. 

William Clapham. 

P. S. The Fort at this place is without a name till your 
Honor is pleased to confer one. 

in* Philadelphia June 25, 1756.— Geo. Morris writes : — 
" The Fort at Armstrong's, I would have it called,. Fort 
Halifax.'* 

Immediately on receiving instructions, Col. Clapham pro- 
ceeded to erect fort, as appears from the following : 

Camp at Armstrong's, June 15, 1756^ 
Sir : — On the 13th inst., I seceived your Honor's procla- 
mation enjoining a cessation of hostihties for thirty days, and 
shall, as far as ray judgment extends, pay all due deference to 

27 



314 



HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



it, but it not being accompanied with a single line of instruc- 
tions, I am vastly at a loss how to proceed, not being able 
to determine whether only marching into that country may 
or may not be deemed an act of hostility, and must in order 
to acquit myself, leave the decision of that matter to the 
opinion of a council of war. I am the more uneasy as the 
Fort is not in a condition to be left, the river daily falling, 
and this perhaps the only opportunity this season may afford 
of a water carriage to Shamokin. 

Having received a letter from the commissioners, I have 
transmitted to them copies of what I wrote to your Honor, 
except your Honor's private letter. Inclosed is an exact 
copy of what intelligence is communicated to me by Ogag- 
hadarirah, the Indian messenger now at camp, a copy of 
which I have also inclosed the commissioners. I wait the 
return of the courses with the utmost impatience, and am 
sir, with all respect your Honor's most obedient and humble 
servant, 

William Clapham. 

To Gov. Morris. 

Hon. Gov. Morris : Halifax, July 1, 1756. 

Sir: I received your favor by Commissary Burd and 
the d£100 which I distributed among the Battoe men in pro- 
portion to their several demands, in not being sufficient to 
discharge the whole. The ship carpenters have finished the 
carriages for the canoe, and as soon as they have finished the 
Battoes in hand which I expect will be done to-morrow, I 
shall give them a certificate of their services and discharge 
them all except one who will be absolutely necessary in the 
passage and without whose assistance we may probably lose 
more than his pay can cost the Province ; now if my people 
are to be depended on in case of an accident on the water, 
and I can assure your Honor that I find fatigue and difficul- 
ties enough to conduct so amphibious an expedition, with 
all the assistance I can possibly command. I shall leave a 
sergeants party at Harris' consisting of twelve men, twenty- 
four at Hunter's Fort, twenty-four at McKee's store, each 
under the command of an ensign ; and Captain Miles with 
thirty men at Fort Halifax, with the inclosed instructions, as 
I have removed all the stores from Harris' and McKee's to 
this place ; Mr. Galbreath's presence does not seem very ne- 



HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 315 

cessary at either of those two places, and his refusal to at- 
tend here has laid me under the necessity of appoining a per- 
son to act in that capacity under the direction of Commissary 
Burd till your pleasure shall be known. I am at present ex- 
tremely engaged in embarking the regiments, stores, &c., for 
Shamokin, expecting to march time enough to night on the 
^west side of Susquehanna, about five miles above Fort Hali- 
fax ; and promising myself the pleasure of congratulating 
your Honor from Shamokin — and in the meantime very res- 
pectfully your Honor's most obedient, humble servant. 

William Clapham. 
P. S. There are still one hundred blankets w^anting in the 
regiment. 

Orders to Captain Miles. 
Sir: Fort Halifax, July 1, 1756. 

You are to command a party of thirty men at Fort Hali- 
fax, which you are to finish with all possible expedition, ob- 
serving not to suffer your party to straggle in small numbers 
into the woods, or to go any great distance from the Fort 
unless detached as an escort, or in cause of special orders 
for that purpose. You are to build barracks wiihin the fort 
for your men and also a store house thirty feet by twelve — 
in which you are carefully to lodge all provisions, stores, &c. 
belonging to the province : if the boards purchased for that 
purpose are not sufficient to finish the banquette and execute 
the other designs herein recommended, your men are to be 
employed in sawing more out of the pine logs now lying near 
the fort. You are to keep a constant guard, and relieve re- 
gularly, to have continual one sentry in each bastion, and in 
case of an attack to retreat to the fort and defend it to the 
last extremity. 

If any thing extraordinary occurs you are immediately to 
dispatch notice thereof to his Honor, the Governor, and to 
signify the same to me, if any relief or instruction may be 
necessary. 

William Clapham. 

To E. Shippen, Lancaster: Fort Halifax, Oct. 13, 1756. 
Sir: As Col. Clapham is at Carlisle, and it being re- 
ported here that his Honor, our governor, has gone round by 
York, and therefore not knowing when he will receive an ex- 
press that is sent to him from Shamokin, I have thought fit 



316 HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 

to send an abstract of Maj. Burd's letter to me that arrived 
here at day. break this morning, that the gentlemen and mili- 
tia of Lancaster county might take such steps as they think 
most prudent. 

I thought it proper to acquaiut you with a piece of intelli- 
gence that I have received by old Ogaghradariha, one of the 
Six Nations chiefs, who came here yt^sterday in the after- 
noon, and is as follows — That about ten days ago before he 
left Tioga, there were two Delaware Indians arrived there 
who had just come from Fort Du Quesne and informed him, 
that before they left said fort, there were one thousand In- 
dians assembled there, who were immediately to march in 
conjunction with a body of French, to attack his fort (mean- 
ing Fort Augusta) and he, Ogaghradariah, hurried down 
here to give us the information. He says further, that the 
day before he came in here, he saw upon the North Branch 
a large body of Delaware Indians, and spoke with them, and 
they told him, they were going to speak with the governor 
of Pennsylvania. "Whatever intentions they have, they are 
marching towards our inhabitants. 

I am, Sir, your most obedient humble servant, 

David Jameson. 

P. S. The Major's letter is dated the 12th instant, in the 
afternoon. 

Besides Fort Halifax, there were other forts above Fort 
Hunter, viz; McKee's Fort or Trading louse, where Tho- 
mas McKee, the Indian trader was stationed. This place 
was about twenty-five miles above Fort Hunter. Edward 
Shippen, of Lancaster, makes mention ot this place, in a let- 
ter dated April 17, 1756; and Fort Augusta, at Shamokin. 

Hon. Gov. Morris: Lancaster, April 19,1756. 

I have been at Captain McKee's Fort where I found 
about ten Indians, men, women and children; three of the 
women lying very ill in bed. The Captain tells me that 
Johny Shekallimy* is greatly dissatisfied with beiug there; 
and has several times been much out of temper, which he 
would hope was owing to nothing but the sickness of the 
Indians; and to their being often insulted by the fearful ig- 

• John Shekallimy was a son of Shekallimy of Shamokin, who died 
ia 1749. — Compiler. 



HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUlfTT. 317 

norant people who have sometimes told Shekallimy to his 
face, that they had a good mind to scalp him. Shekallimy 
let me know that he wished the Indians would be moved 
down to Barney Hughes', where Capt. McKee's woman and. 
children live; and afterwards if the governor thought pro- 
per he would go to Wyoming, and endeavor to bring down 
Buckshenoath, a great man, a Shawanese Captain, who 
would have come with him, but the Delawares would not 
permit it ; he says that at the council at Wyoming, whither 
your Honor sent Silver Heels and the Belt, to know why 
the Indians struck their brethren, the English; this Shaw- 
anese Captain obsered, that it was not more than one night 
and a haf (meaning a year and a half) since he had taken 
the Governor by the hand, and heard every thing that he 
said, which was very kind and loving, and why should he 
forget bira so soon ? That he was then sitting between the 
Six Nations, and the Governor, takes one in each hand. — 
That council consisted of Shawnese, Chickasaws, Mohick- 
ans and some of the Six Nations, and Shekallimy was ap- 
pointed to give the answer, who spoke and said : You, our 
young brothers, the Shawanese it may be, know the reason 
of striking the English, as you are always in council with 
the Delawares ; no, answered the Shawanese, directing their 
discourse to the Six Nations, saying : Old Brothers, we can- 
not tell why the hatchet was taken up against the English, 
but you know the reason of it who were always with them 
at General Braddock's battle. 

Shekallimy says there are about 400 Indian warriors at 
Tiaogo of the Six Nations, Delawares, Munsees and Shaw- 
anese, and about 40 more at Wyoming, viz : ten Mohickans, 
ten Mingoes, and 20 Shawnese ; he says if we attempt to 
go up to Shamokin to build a fort, we may expect to be at- 
tacked by a body of 500 Indians in our march. 

According to your Honor's instructions to Mr. Burd, I 
have prevailed with Shekallimy to stay where he is till we 
can hear again from your Honor. I pity the sick Indians 
much, because there is neither sheep, calves or poultry to be 
got in that part of the country, and thu' game is very plen- 
ty, yet the Indians dare not venture out of the Fort for fear 
of being murdered ; and the Captain informs me that the 
garrison has been but poorly served ; the provisions having 
been very ordinary ; but they are now a little better used • 

27* 



318 HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 

yet he would fain believe, the persons employed about them 
did their best ; he finds that one pound of Burlington pork 
will go as far as two pounds made in that country. 

John Harris has built an excellent stoccade around his 
house, which is the only place of security that way, for the 
provisions for the army, he having much good cellar room, 
and as he has but six or seven men to guard it, if the gov- 
ernment would order six men more there to strengthen it, it 
would in my opinion, be of great use to the cause, even were 
no provision to be stored there at all, though there is no 
room for any scarce in Capt. McKee's fort: Hunter's house 
indeed would answer such a purpose were it stoccaded, but 
as it is quite naked, and stands five or six hundred feet from 
the Fort, the enemy may surround it in the night and kill 
the people, and set the roof on fire in three or four places at 
once ; and if the sentry should discern the fire as soon as it 
begins to blaze, it might be too difficult a task for them to 
quench it without buckets or pails. I speak with submission; 
but this stoccade at Harris' ought by all means to be sup- 
ported, for if for want of this small addition of men above 
mentioned, the Indians should destroy it, the consequence 
would be the most of the inhabitants within twenty miles of 
his house would immediately leave their plantations. The 
enemy can come over the hills, at five miles distance from 
McKee's fort. But notwithstanding all I have said on this 
head, I am convinced that the number of stoccades set up 
and down the country do more hurt than good. 

By the best intelligence I can get, it will be best for Colo- 
nel Clapham to march his regiment on the west side of Sus- 
quehanna, after first marching 8 or 9 miles on this side ; the 
only difficulty will be in crossing the river. I know there 
are several bad passes, as far as Capt. McKee's plantation 
where I have been ; it is but twenty-five miles from Hunter's 
mill. 

I ought to have acquainted your Honor before, that I have 
cautioned Capt. McKee against suffering any body to abuse 
the Indians for the future ; and by all means advised him to 
kee p a strict watch over the young Frenchman whom he 
has under his care. 

Inclosed is a letter from Mr. Harris, and also a memoran- 
dum. At the request of a poor neighbor of his, who has 
but one hand to work with for his living, I send an account 



HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 319 

of some losses which he assures me he has sustained by the 
Indians, whom Mr. Harris maintained at the charge of the 
government. 

Please pardon my prolixty, and permit me to say, that I 
am, your Honor's &.c. 

Edward Shippen.* 

In 1749, Conrad Weiser, on his way to Shamokin with a 
messenger from the government to the Indians there, met the 
sons of Shickalimy at the Trading House of Thomas McKee 
and delivered them the messages there ; because he had been 
informed that all the Indians were absent from Shamokin. — 
In a letter addressed to Richard Peters he mentions these 
facts : 

Sir— ^By these lines I let you know that I returned from 
Shamokin on the 18th inst. I happened to meet the eldest 
and the youngest son of Shickeliray at the Trading house of 
Thomas McKee, about twenty miles this side Shamokin, by 
whom I was informed that all the Indians had left Shamo- 
kin for this present time, for want of provisions ; so I thought 
best to deliver my message there to the sons of Shickelimy. 
There were also present three more of the Six Nations In- 
dians; one of them was Toyanogow, a noted man among 
the Cayukers. All what I had to do was to let the children 
and grand-children of our deceased friend Shickelimy know 
that the governor of Pennsylvania and his council condoled 
with them, for the death of their father ; which I did accord- 
ingly, and gave them a small present, in order to wipe off 
their tears, according to the custom of the Indians. The 
present consisted of six stroud match coats, seven shirts, 
with a string of wampum to Taghneghdoarus, ShickeJimy's 
eldest son, and desired him to take upon him the care of a 
chief, in the stead of his deceased father, and to be our true 
correspondent, until there should be a meeting between the 
governor of Pennsylvania and some of the Six Nation chiefs, 
and then he should be recommended by the governor, to the 
Six Nation chiefs, and continued if he would follow the foot- 
steps of his deceased fiUher- He accepted thereof, and I 

• Col. Clapham, mentioned by Mr. Shippen, seems to have fully un- 
derstood Indian warfare : See his instructions to Capt. Hambright. 
Appendix I. 



320 HISTORY OP DAUPHIN COUNTY. 

gent a string of warapum by Toganogan (who was then set- 
ting out for Caynikgno) to Onondago to let the council of 
the Six Nations know of Shikehmy's death, and my transac- 
tion by order of the governor. There was a necessity for 
my so doing. 

The Indians are very uneasy about the white people set- 
ling beyond the Endless mountains, on Joniady (Juniata) on 
Sherman's creek and elsewhere. They tell me that about 
thirty families are settled upon the Indian lands this Spring, 
and daily more go to settle thereon. Some have settled aK 
most to the head of Joniady river along the Path that leads 
to Ohio. The Indians say (and that with truth) that, that 
country is their only hunting ground for deer, because farther 
to the north, there was nothing but spruce woods and the 
ground covered with Kalmia bushes (laurel), not a single deer 
could be found or killed there. They asked very seriously 
whether their brother Onas had given the people leave to 
settle there. I informed them of the contrary, and told them 
that I believed some of the Indians from Ohio, that were 
down last summer, had given liberty (with what right I 
could not tell) to settle. I told them of what passed on the 
Tuscarora Path last summer, when the sheriff and three 
magistrates were sent to turn off the people there settled ; 
and, that I then perceived that the people were favored by 
some of the Indians above mentioned ; by which means the 
orders of the governor came to no effect. So far they were 
content, and said, the thing must be, as it is, till the Six Na- 
tion chiefs would be down, and converse with the Governor 
of Pennsylvania, about the affair. 

I have nothing else to add; but remain, sir, your very 
obedient, 

Conrad VVeiskr. 
Heidelberg, April 22, 1749. 

The provincial government erected a fort at Shamokin in 
1756, called Fort Augusta, and was garrisoned during the 
French and Indian war. • James Young commissary general 
visited this place in July 1756, and speaks with much doubt 
of the success of building a Fort at that important place un- 
der the uneasiness of the officers and men that prevailed. A 
fort, however, was erected, and in 1756, '7, and at a later 



HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 321 

period several companies were stationed heie, as will appear 
from the following letters. 

Carlisle, July l8, 1756. 
To the Hon. Gov. Morris. 

Sir — I did myself the honor to write lo you on my arrival 
at Shamokin. I staid there four' days, in which time I was 
greatly perplexed to know how to act, there being a general 
dissatisfaction among the officers concerning my instructions 
from the commissioners to pay them, for therein I am com- 
manded to pay Lieut's 5s. 6d. and the Ensigns 4 shillings per 
day, whereas they expected 7s. 6d. and 5s. 6d. I am likewise 
ordered to pay 384 private men and 16 sergeants. I find 
seven more in the camp besides Ensign Meyers, with twenty 
men at McKees' store ; Ensign Johnston with 23 men at 
Hunter's mill ; and a Sergeant with 13 men at Harris's, all 
ordered there by Colonel Claphara, and above his number of 
400 ; I therefore did not pay, neither could muster them, the 
certificates of enlistment being disposed among the officers. 
At Shamokin the people are extremely uneasy for their pay. 
The Colonel is highly displeased, I had not orders to pay him 
for his Captain's commission, likewise that I brought him no 
money to pay the Battoe men; he talks loudly of his ill usage 
and threatens to leave the service ; that he will go and join 
the Six Nations, whether they side with the English or 
French. This I thought my duty to acquaint your Honor 
with. I was informed that he is to charge the Province with 
116 Battoe men at 2s. 6d. per day; at the same time, I was 
credibly informed that the greater part of them are soldiers 
in his regiment, and are now daily employed in the battoes, 
and are very capable to work them. 

The officers in general seem not at all pleased under their 
colonel's command , all of them, but three or four, have been 
confined by him, and continued so during his pleasure, and 
released without trial by the same authority. 

I am sorry to say, I much doubt the success of building a 
fort at that important place, Shamokin, under the present ur>- 
easiness of the officers and men. I was ordered by the com- 
missioners to pay all the men up to the 1st of July, deducting 
half their pay for their clothing ; but the captain refused to 
receive it on such terms, and presented me a paper, setting 
forth their reasons, of which I sent you a copy. I being ap' 



322 History of dauPhiK county. 

prehensive of a general desertion, and considering that the 
Province had the same security for the clothing complied 
with their demands, and thereby have broken my orders 
from the commissioners. I shall be extremely sorry if I am 
blamed for so doing ; for nothing but the good of the service 
(and so I judged it to be) would have induced me to act con- 
trary to my instructions. The subalterns would 'not grant 
me receipts for their full pay, but in part. If I have done 
wrong, I beg your pardon, and that you will continue that 
friendship to me, I have already so largely experienced, and 
shall ever gratefully acknowledge. 

Capt. Loyd was to set out soon after me for Philadelphia, 
to lay their grievances before your Honor. 

I left Shamokin early on Friday morning in a battoe; we 
rowed her down to Harris's before night, with four oars. 
There is but one fall above those you saw, not so bad as 
those at Hunter's ; it is about 4 miles from Fort Halifax. I 
came here yesterday noon, hoping to find money sent by the 
commissioners, to pay the forces on this side the river, as 
they promised ; but as yet none is come, neither is Colonel 
Armstrong come, and I find but 16 of his men here, the rest 
are gone to Shearman's valley, to protect the farmers at 
their harvest ; so wnen the money comes, I shall be at a loss 
for an escort. I am informed that a number of men at the 
Forts, whese time of three months is expired, agreeable to 
their enlistments, have left their posts, and expect their pay 
when I go there, this may be of bad consequence, and I hear- 
tily wish there were none enlisted for less than twelve months. 
I am persuaded the officers would find men enough for that 
time. 

I am with great respect, sir. 

Your most obedient and humble servant, 

James Young. 

From the following, furnished by a great grand son* of the 
writer of the letter, it appears that John Carson was sent, 
by the governor of the province, in the autumn of 1756, to 
open a trade with the Indians at Shamokin. 

• John Carson, a clerk in the Secretary's office of Pennsylvania. 



HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 323 

Fort Augusta, December ITth, 1757. 
May it please your Honor : 

I beg leave to acquaint your Honor that I arrived at 
Fort Augusta on the 30th of November, and on the 8th cur- 
rent opened a trade with the Indians, the store not being fit 
to receive the goods sooner, and I have disposed of some of 
the goods and received a small parcel of skins, the amount 
of which I now enclose for your Honor's perusal. Accord- 
ing to the best of my judgment I have calculated the prices 
of the goods that the profits may defray the charges of the 
Trade. I have not been able to put an equal profit on all 
the goods, the Indians having heretofore had stroud blankets 
and match coats at a very low rate, therefore I have charg- 
ed the other goods something higher. If it appears to your 
Honor that I have over-charged any of the goods or sold at 
too low a rate, please to favor me with your sentiments for 
my future direction, and I shall act agreeably thereto. 
I am your Honor's most humble servant, 

John Carson. 

The following letters written at Fort Auo-usta are here in- 
troduced m connection with the preceding, as having rela- 
tion to the same subject, and containing some important 
facts. 

Fort Augusta, July 1st 1758. 
May it please your Honnor. 

Your favor of the 21st past was delivered me by Mr- 
Holland, agent for the Indian affairs, who arrived here last 
Wednesday evening, and observe what your Honor says 
with respect to supplying such Indians as Tedyuscung shall 
direct with provisions, Indian corn, powder and lead, and 
conforming to the orders you gave to the commandant offi- 
cer respecting the friendly Indians that came to trade with 
provisions, all which I shall punctually observe. 

Capt. Trump has received no orders from Col. Bouquet or 
any other person concerning a flag to be used by our friend- 
ly Indians or our own people ; neither have any such flags 
been sent here. Agreeable to your Honor's orders I wrote 
down to George Allen, master of the batteaux, by a man 
that went down yesterday morning, and acquainted him, that 
you had ordered me to take all the batteaux men into the 
service again, and that they were to be paid by the general. 



324 HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 

and ordered hira immediately to set about collecting Ihem 
together ; but I understand, as soon as they were discharged, 
a great many of them engaged with Sir John St. Clair to go 
upon the expedition, some as horse drivers, and others with 
wagons, &c. 

I do not doubt but Capt. Allen will pick up a sufficient 
number of them. It is not every man that is Ht for that ser- 
vice, they ought to be well acquainted with the river pok- 
ing. I understand Croston is expected this night at Harris's 
with a drove of cattle ; a party goes down from here to-mor- 
row to escort them and the batteaux up; if the latter should 
be ready and not wanted below to ferry over troops, &c., if 
that should be the case, I have desired Capt. Allen to get as 
many of them as can be spared to bring up the cannon, pow- 
der, ball, and sundry other necessaries, which are much want- 
ed here, and have lain there a long while. When I was com- 
ing up, I asked Sir Allen McClain, who was then at Harris's, 
if he could not spare four of the batteaux to bring up some 
necessaries that were much wanted at Fort Augusta, he said, 
by no means, as there were troops, baggage, &c-, coming 
daily, and that they must not be detained. If the batteaux 
can't come up at present, the party is ordered immediately to 
escort up the bullocks, as so many men cannot be spared long 
from this weak garrison. 

We have now about two hundred men here; seventy of 
them came up with me, and are part of Captain Eastburn's 
and Capt. Jackson's companies; thirty of their men were left 
at Hunter's fort, and what were here before we came — one 
hundred and twenty odd are the callings of the whole battal- 
ion, and several of them sick and lame ; so that we have but 
a very weak garrison- 

Your Honor has doubtless heard of the French building a 
fort upon the West Branch of this river, at a place called 
Shingelaclamoos. And by a letter Capt. Trump has receiv- 
ed from Col. Burd, wherein he acquainted him that from the 
intelligence he has had, he has great reason to believe the 
French intend to attack this fort. I desired Capt. Young 
to acquaint your Honor that there was neither surgeon nor 
doctor here ; since which he informs me there is one appoii>- 
ted for us, I hope he will be here soon, as several of our 
men are suffering for want of one. I believe Doctor Mor- 
gan left us but few drugs, as the shop looks very thin. 



HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 325 

Agreeable to your Honor's orders by Mr. Peters concern- 
a flag that Tedyuscung took from Bille Sock, I enquired of 
Capt. Trump, whether he knew how he came by it ; he said 
he did not ; that he came here with his brother and a Mo- 
hawk Indian man and a squaw on the 26th of May, and 
brought with him cags of rum which he said he got from 
the inhabitants ; but would not say from whom : he went 
away the next day and said he was going to Tyahogah to 
see his friends and sell his rum ; that he should return here 
in the fall to hunt — this is all the conversation passed be- 
tween Capt. Trump and him ; but upon enquiring of Lieut. 
Broadhead, if he knew any thing about it, he informed me, 
that he was down at Hunter's fort and saw Indian Jegra 
have such a flag as Mr. Peters, in his letter to me, describes, 
and he thinks that the word " union" was written with ink 
in the middle of it ; and Capt. Patterson, the commander of 
the fort, informed him he gave them to Jegra ; Bill Sock, 
his brother, and another Indian were there at that time and 
they all that evening went away, and the next morning Jegra 
returned to the fort, beaten in a most cruel manner, of \^hich 
he died the next day. Lieut. Broadhead saw no more of 
the flag. Your Honor's most obedient humble servant, 

Peter Bard, 

P. S. Just as I had finished my letter, nine Indians came 
here in two canoes from Wyomuig, for Indian corn — there is 
none yet come up — they desire to have same flour for the 
present which shall be given them» 

To Hon. Wm. Denny, Esq, 



28 



CHAPTER XXI. 

MiDDLETOWN, PORTSMOUTH, HuMMELSTOWN, &C. 

Middletown laid out by George Fisher, Esq., 1755 ; First settlers ; Place 
of note during the Revolution ; Kreider appears at, with the first ark ; 
Town incorporated. Portsmouth; George Frey ; Notice of Germans 
from New York bound for Tulpehocken. Hummelstown laid out in 
1762, &c.; Rocktown, Franklin, Cox's Town, Highspire, Linglestown, 
Greensburg, Millersburg, &c.; Berrysburg, Gratztown, Wisconisco, 
Snyderstown, Oak Dale, Duncan's Island, &c., Present condition of; 
Indian relics discovered; Settled byHuling; Visited by the Rev.Rrai- 
nerdin 1745; Incidents touching it; Clark's Ferry. 

Middletown, post town and borough of Swatara township, 
is the oldest town in the county, having been laid out thirfy 
years before Harrisburg, and seven years before Hummels- 
town, and is nine miles by the turnpike road south-east of 
Harrisburg, near the junction of the Susquehanna and Swa- 
tara, at which the Pennsylvania and Union canals unite. 

It was laid out in 1755 by George Fisher, Esq., (father of 
George Fisher, Esq., who resides near the place on a well 
cultivated farm*) "in the centre of a large tract of land, 
bounded by the Swatara and Susquehanna, conveyed to him 
by his father John Fisher, a merchant of Philadelphia. The 
site was that of an ancient Indian village, founded by the 
Susquehanna Nation. Middletown derived its name from its 
local position, mid-way between Lancaster and Carlisle. 

" The proprietor being a Friend, several of this denomi- 
nation from the city and the lower counties followed him ; 
and these, with several Scotch and Irish merchants, formed 
the first inhabitants of the village, who enjoyed, up to the 
period of the revolution, a very extensive and lucrative trade 
with the nations and others settled on the Susquehanna and 
Juniata, and also with the western traders. Several of the 

• George Fisher, Esq., prepared this interesting, early history of this 
town originally for the " Historical Collections of Pa." 



HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 327 

Scotch and Irish merchants entered the army, whence few 
returned. During the war a commissary department was es- 
tablished here, when the small boats for General Sullivan's 
army were built, and his troops supplied with provisions and 
military stores for his expedition against the Six Nations. 

" After the war, trade again revived, and flourished ex- 
tensively until 1796, after which it gradually declined. — 
Until then, the mouth of the Swatara was considered the 
termination of the navigation of the Susquehanna and its 
tributary streams. So far down, it was considered safe ; 
below this it was believed to be impracticable, on account of 
the numerous and dangerous falls and cataracts impeding its 
bed. In 1796, an enterpiising German miller by the name 
of Kreider, from the neighborhood of Huntingdon on the 
Juniata, appeared in the Swatara with the first ark ever, 
built in those waters, fully freighted with flour, with which 
he safely descended to Baltimore, where he was amply com- 
pensated for his meritorious adventure. His success becom- 
ing known throughout the interior, many arks were built, 
and the next year, many of them, fully freighted, arrived 
safely at tide-water. This trade increasing, a number of 
enterprising young men were induced io examine critically 
the river liom the Swatara to tide, by Vv'hich they became 
excellent pilots. The enterprise of John Kreider thus di- 
verted the trade of this place to Baltimore, where it princi- 
pally centred, until the Union canal was completed in 1827, 
when it was again generally arrested at its old post. It 
would probably have so continued, if the Pennsylvania ca- 
nal had not been continued to Columbia, by which the prin- 
cipal obstruction in the river, the Conewago falls, was com- 
pletely obviated. Middletown, or rather Portsmouth, laid 
out in 1814, by the son of the original proprietor, at the 
junction of the Union and Pennsylvania canals, again de- 
clined. A large trade, however, in lumber and other arti- 
cles of domestic produce, is still intercepted here, supplying 
the valleys of the Swatara, Quitapahilla, Tulpehocken, and 
the Schuylkill. It may fairly be presumed, from the local 
advantages c ajoyed by this town, that it is destined ere long 
to become one of much importance," 

The town was incorporated in 1829, and contains about 
150 dwellings, several stores and taverns, a bank, four 
churches, Lutheran, German Reformed, Methodist, and 



328 HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 

" Church of God " or Bethel, several school houses ; the 
usual number of handicrafts. The first settlers, were Irish, 
English and some Scotch ; but the present population is 
principally German. 

Portsmouth, between Middletown and the Susquehanna, 
was laid out, as stated above in 1814, by George Fisher, 
Esq., son of Mr. Fisher, who laid out Middletown. The 
Union canal, the Pennsylvania canal, the Harrisburg and 
Lancaster railroad, all intersec there. Close by these are 2 
blast furnaces, one foundry, two extensive flouring mills, and 
three saw mills, all propelled by the waters of the Swatara. 

Between Portsmouth and Middletown, on the plain, stands 
the Emmaus Institute, devoted to the education of poor or- 
phan children, where, it is said, the children " are to be care- 
fully trained in the doctrines of the Evangelical Lutheran 
Church. Instruction is given in the German and English 
languages, and the charter has been so altered by the legis- 
lature as to permit the establishment of a literary and scien- 
tific department in connection with the orphan house, in 
which all the branches of modern learning are taught. The 
institution owes its origin to the liberality of Mr. George 
Frey, formerly a distinguished citizen of Middletown. It has 
only been recently erected, after many years of expensive 
and vexatious litigation, since the death of the donor, seme 
forty years since. The life of Mr. Frey was marked with 
not a little of romance. His name, by the way, was not 
Frey, but Everhart." 

" When Mr. Fisher, the founder of the town, first came 
to the place, he used to hire George, who was then a penni- 
less German lad, to assist in ploughing his fields and clearing 
up his new land. George lived with Mr. Fisher some years 
until he had saved a little fund ; but his ambition looked 
above the plough, and investing his money in a stock of trin- 
kets, finery, and other articles for Indian traffic, he mounted 
his pack, and started up the Susquehanna. Passing the 
mountains, he encountered a party of soldiers from the garri- 
son at Fort Hunter, who arrested him as a runaway redemp- 
tioner, (a servant who had been sold for a time to pay his 
passage from Europe,) a character common in those days, and 
far more consistent with George's appearance and language 
than that of a pedler ; for what pedler, said they, would risk 
life and property thus alone, and on foot, on this dangerous 



HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 329 

frontier? *'Ich bin frey, ich bin frey," (I am free,) repeated 
George earnestly, in German, in reply to their charges. He 
succeeded in convincing them of his independence, and went 
with them to the garrison, where he became quite a favorite, 
the soldiers knowing him by no other name than " Frey," 
which they had caught from his first reply to them. He sold 
out his pack at a fine profit, and continued to repeat his ad- 
ventures, still passing as George Frey, until he was able to 
start a little store in Midilletown, and he afterwards erected 
a mill. Near the close of the revolution, when the old con- 
tinental money was gradually depreciating, George, who al- 
ways kept both eyes open, contrived to be on the right side 
of ihe account, so that, instead of losing, he gained immense- 
ly by the depreciation; and, in short, by dint of untiring in- 
dustry, close economy, sharp bargains, and lucky financier- 
ing, George at lenglh became, on a small scale, the Stephen 
Girard of the village, and owned a great part of the real es- 
tate in and around j:he town. He had not, however, all the 
good things of this life ; although he was married, heaven 
had never blessed him with children — a circumstance which 
he bitterly regretted, as certain worthy fathers of the Luth- 
eran Church can testify. The property, therefore, of the 
childless man, was destined to cheer and educate the father- 
less children of a succeeding age. He died in 1S07 or 1808, 
and a splendid seminary, erected about the year 1840, is the 
monument of George Frey's benevolence." 

The reason why Middletown was so noted a mart for the 
sale of grain, brought down the Susquehanna in keel bottom 
boats and canoes was, the Conewago falls pr-evented their 
further descent. Much of the grain that was sold here, was 
ground into flour at Frey's mill, or stored up, and sold to the 
millers in Lancaster county. In 1790, there were 150,000 
bushels of wheat brought down the Susquehanna, and passed 
through Middletown for the Philatlelphia market.— Haz. 
Reg. II. p. 131. 

About the year 1794 or '95, the first vessel, in the shape 
of an ARK, but of small dimensions, arrived at Harrisburg, 
from Huntingdon, on the Juniata, the Conewago falls were 
run with safety by it. About the same time that arks were 
introduced, the Conewago canal at York Haven was com- 
menced, and on its completion in 1797 or 1798, keel bottom 
boats were passed through; then Columbia became a mart 

28* 



330 



HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



of some importance, and a great portion of business, in the 
sale and purchase of wheat, was drawn away from Middle- 
town. But in a few years afterwards, boats ventured beyond 
the rapids below, and reached tide water, and thus this kind 
of trade was measurably diverted from both Middletown and 
Columbia. 

It is worthy of remark here, that in the year 1723, some 
Germans, from the province of New York, leaving Schoha- 
rie, wending their faces in a southwestern direction, travel- 
ling through the forest, till they reached the Susquehanna, 
where they made canoes, freighted them with their families, 
&c., and floated down the river to the mouth of the Swatara 
creek, thence worked their way up, till they reached a fer- 
tile spot on Tulpehocken creek, where they settled amidst 
the Indians. The names of some of those families are still 
preserved, viz: Yans, Ritt, Schitz, Serbo, Sab, Shaver, Shart, 
Pacht, Cricht, Pisas, Falborn, (Walburn) Filler. — His. of 
Berks, p. 99. 

Hill Island and Shelly's Island, are immediately below 
Portsmouth. Passing, it might be remarked, that in Novem- 
ber, 1844, a number of " Millerites," dressed in Ascension 
robes, spent a cold night on this Island, waiting to go hea- 
venward ! 

Hummelstown was laid out October 26th 1762, by Mr. 
Frederick Hummel, and was long named Frederickstown ; 
but the name has been changed to Hummelstown. It is situ- 
ated in Derry township, nine miles east of Harrisburg, on 
the turnpike road leading to Reading ; seated in a tiertile 
limestone region, highly cultivated by wealthy and industri- 
ous Germans. 

It contains about one hundred dwellings, five stores, two 
taverns, one Latheran Church, one " Union Meeting house," 
three school houses, the town being divided into three school 
districts, each of which conti ins one large school. The pre- 
sent (1845) population is about five hundred and thirty. — 
There are, says Mr. George Fox, who has furnished the 
facts, twenty-five different kinds of mechanics in this place, 
engaged in the following occupations, viz : 3 butchers, 3 
saddlers, 3 blacksmiths, 1 watch and clock maker, 5 tailors, 
4 cabinet maicers, 6 shoe ujikers, 2 lumber merchants, 3 
physicians, 1 tobacconist, 3 coopers, O joineis and house car- 
penters, 1 barber, 3 wheelwrights and^ chair makers, 3 plas- 



HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 331 

terers, 3 blue dyers and weavers, a coverlet weaver, 3 dro- 
vers, 2 stone cutters, 1 wagon maker, 1 coach maker, 3 
painters. 

" The following are a few of the oldest settlers of the 
town now living : Jacob Hummel, sen., John Fox, Freder- 
ick Hummel, George Gish, George Fox, Christian Spade, 
Frederick Richert, Daniel Baum, Adam Dean." 

During the Revolution of '76, Hummelstown was made a 
place of deposit for arras, ammunition, &c., whence the gar- 
rison on the west branch were supplied. 

The Swatara creek, along which the Union canal lies, runs 
close by the town. On the banks of the Swatara, a short 
distance from town, is a remarkable cave, about half a mile 
in length ; it is much visited in the summer serson ; The visi- 
ter, as in all subterranean caverns, receives, on entering it, in 
summer, " a cold reception." It abounds with stalactites 
and stalagmites. Not far from this cave, rises the lofty iso- 
lated mountain called Round Top, from whose height a fine 
prospect of the surrounding scenery can be had. 

High Spire, post town of Swatara township, on the bank 
of the Susquehanna, was laid out about thirty years ago ; it 
contains about thirty houses, a store and two taverns, two 
churches and a mill. It is on the turnpike road leading from 
Harrisburg to Middletown, six miles from the former and 
three from the latter. The Pennsylvania canal and the Har- 
risburg and Lancaster railroad pass through it. The inhab- 
itants are distinguished for industry. 

Roc/down, appropriately named, is a small town in Lon- 
donderry township, on the " Conewago Hills,'' two miles 
south of Middletown, on the turnpike road, and consists of 
a few houses. 

Franklin, also Londonderry township, is a small village, 
consisting of four or five dwellings, and tavern* The elec- 
tion is held here. 

Coxtown, a pleasant little village, in Susquehanna town- 
ship, on the bank of the Susquehanna, containing ten or 
twelve houses, a Methodist church, a school house, two tav- 
erns and several mechanic shops. The village received its 
name from Mr. Cox, the proprietor. It is on the turnpike 
road four miles north of Harrisburg. 

Linglestown, a post town of Lower Paxton township, laid 
out by Mr. Lingle, after whom it is called, is a small village 



S33 HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 

but pleasantly situated, south of the Blue mountain, on the 
road leading from the Susquehanna to Jonestown, in Leba- 
non county. It contains between twenty and thirty dwell- 
ings, a Lutheran church, meeting house and several houses, 
two stores and two taverns- Paxton creek rises a few miles 
north-east of it, and passes near it. 

Greensburg or Dauphin, formerly called Port Lyon, is a 
post village in Middle Paxton township, was laid out about 
twenty years ago by the late Hon. Innis Green, it is on the 
turnpike road from Harrishurg to Clarks Ferry, eight miles 
from Harrishurg, at the confluence of Stoney creek, with the 
Susquehanna- It is a thriving village, consisting of about 
one hundred dwellings, many of which are commodious, and 
substantially built. It contains two stores, four taverns, two 
churches, a Methodist, and a Germau Reformed, two school 
houses, and one of the most extensive tanneries in the inte- 
rior of Pennsylvania. It is on the south side of the creek. 
In 1830 it was carried on by Eld ridge and Birch, of Phila- 
delphia — now owned by Mr. Patton, & Co. of Phila. 

Four miles above this place is Emaline Furnace, at the 
mouth of Clarkes creek, in a fine valley, pretty well im- 
proved. 

Millershurg, a post town of Upper Paxton township, 
north of Berry's mountain, at the confluenee of the Wiscon- 
isco creek with the Susquehanna, twenty -three miles north 
of Harrishurg, on the road leading to Sunbury. It was laid 
out by Daniel Miller, formerly of Lancaster county, in 1805 
or '6. It stands on an elevated spot, a short distance from 
the river ; contains between seventy or eighty dwellings, two 
stores, two taverns, three churches; a Methodist, a Luther- 
an, and an Evangelical ; one mill ; and three mills near it. 

Millershurg will, ere long, become a place of some impor- 
tance, being Situated near the coal regions, with which it 
communicates bythe Lykens valley railroad, and with Hariis- 
burg by the Wisconisco canal, and the " Main Line." 

The first settlers of this region were Huguenots. Fran- 
cis Jacques, or Jacobs, resided some time at Halifax, but 
afterwards located here, where he had taken up several 
thousand acres of land. Among others, Kleim Larue, (La- 
roi) Shorra or Jury, Werts, Stoever,* (Stoeverling) Shutts, 

• Daniel Stoerer shot r wolf (1817) from his porch, that was in pur- 
suit of his cattle ; two miles above Millershurg. 



HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 333 

were early settlers here. Lycans, William, Revalt, Fer- 
rees, and others, settled higher up the valley. 

At Lycan's, on the Wisconisco creek, the Indians fired 
upon Lycan and Revalt, (March 7, 1756,) while foddering 
the cattle. For the particulars, see chap. vii. 

Berryshurg, a post town, in Miffiin township, on the road 
leading from Millersburg, through Ly kens' valley into 
Schuylkill county; it is 35 miles from Harrisburg; contains be- 
tween 20 and 30 dwellings, several stores and a tavern. 

Gratztown, a post village of Lykens township, was laid out 
by Mr. Gratz, after whom it is named, between 30 and 40 
years ago. It is on the road leading from Millersburg to Read- 
ing, and contains between 40 and 50 dwellings, several stores 
and taverns, and the usual number of handicrafts, found in 
country villages. It is 30 miles from Harrisburg. 

Wiscojiisco is a small village, started since the mining oper- 
ations have commenced at Bear Gap. It contains 20 or more 
miner's houses, mechanics' shops, &c. It is quite a bustlina; 
place. ^ 

Snyderstown, in Mahantango township, is a very small 
village. 

Oak Dale was laid out in 1830 or '31, and is contiguous 
to the coal mines: in 1831 it had an excellent public house, 
called "Oak Dale," opened by Mr. Burr, son of the cele- 
brated bridge builder. 

Duncan's Island, as the place is now called, remarkable 
for many interesting incidents in the early history of this 
county, is at present a flourishing settlement, at the mouth of 
Choniata, Juneauta, or as now spelled Juniata river, four- 
teen miles above Harrisburg. This island and Haldeman's 
are near the western shore of the Susquehanna, which is here 
nearly a mile wide, and is crossed by a substantial wooden 
bridge— the second one erected here— the first having been 
destroyed by a remarkable freshet seven or eight years ago. 
A dani across the river just below the bridge, creates a pool, 
on which boats cross by means of a double or two story 
towing path attached to the bridge. The canal continues up 
Duncan's Island— at the junction it diverges into the Juni- 
ata and Susquehanna divisions. 

Duncan's Island is nearly two miles long, at the lower 
point of which the small village is situated. 

"This Island says Watson was the favorite home of the 



334 HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 

Indians, and there are still many Indian remains. At the 
angle of the canal, near the great bridge, I saw the 
mound covered with trees, from which were taken hun- 
dreds of cart loads of human bones, and which were used 
■with the intermixed earth, as filling materials for one of the 
shoulders or bastions of the dam. What sacrilege I There 
were also among them beads, trinkets, &c." — WatsojCs Jin- 
nals, ii. 192, '3. 

The Swedish family of Hulin? came originally from Marcus Hook, 
and settled this fine island — "Mrs. Duncan's (late proprietor of the 
Island) grandfather to Marcus Huling, was one of the earliest settlers 
in this section of the country. 

He settled, (possibly as early as 1735,) on the upper end of the island. 
Her other grandfather. Watts, was also another settler in this vicinity. 
Mr. Hulings established a ferry across the mouth of Juniata, and built 
a causeway at the upper end of the island for pack-horses to pass. A 
Mr. Baskin established a ferry across the Susquehanna at the foot of 
the big island, (Haldeman's.) The trade was at that time carried on 
entirely with pack-horses. When the hostile Indians broke in upon 
the frontier in 1756, Mr. Hurlings left here and went out to Fort Du- 
quesne, and afterwards became proprietor of the point where Pittsburg 
now stands. Becoming discontented with his situation in that disturb- 
ed frontier, he sold out for £200, and returned to Duncan's island, 
where he re-established his ferry and made further improvements. 
A bloody fight occurred on the island between the whites and Indians 
about the year 1760. On one occasion news came to Mr. Hulings that 
the Indians were coming down the river to attack the settlement. Hu- 
lings packed up a (ew of his valuables in great haste, and putting his 
wife and child upon a large black horse, fled to the foot of the island, 
ready to cross over at the first alarm. Thinking that perhaps the In- 
dians might not have arrived, he ventured back alone to the house to 
try to save more of his effects. After carefully reconnoitering the 
house, he entered and found an Indian up stairs, coolly picking his 
flint. Slopping some time to parley with the Indian so that he might 
retreat without being shot at, his wife became alarmed at his long de- 
lay ; and, fearing he had been murdered by the Indians, she mounted 
the black charger, with her child on her lap, and swam the Susque- 
hanna.* This was in the spring when the river was up. Our mod- 
ern matrons would scarcely perform such an achievement. Her hus- 
band soon arrived, and in his turn, became alarmed at her absence; 
but she made a signal to him from the opposite side, and relieved his 
anxiety. — Day's His. Col. p. 290. 

David Brainerd a distinguished missionary among the Indians visit- 
ed them here and elsewhere on the Susquehanna in the autumn of 1744 ; 
again in May 1745, when he visited many towns and settlements of the 
Indians; some seven or eight tribes, and preached to difierent nations 
by different interpreters. On the 17 May he left Shamokin. The 19 

• She came down to Fort Hunter, now McAllister's. A Mrs. Berry- 
hill got safe to the same place ; but her husband was killed and scalp 
ed. — Watson. 



HISTORY OF DAUIHIN COUNTY. 335 

he visited an Indian town called Juneauta situated on an island in the 
Susquehanna. Was much discouraged with the temper and behavior 
of the Indians here ; although they appeared friendly when I was with 
them the last spring, and then gave me encouragement to come' and 
see them again. But they now seemed resolved to retain their pagan 
notions, and persist in their idolatrous practices. 

Sept. 20. — Visited the Indians again at Juneauta island, and found 
them almost universally very busy in making preparations for a great 
sacrifice and dance. Had no opportunity to get them together, in order 
to discourse with them about Christianity, by reason of their being so 
much engaged about their sacrifice. My spirits were much sunk with 
a prospect so very discouraging; and especially seeing I had this day 
no interpreter but a pagan, who was as much attached to idolatry as any 
of them, and who could neither speak nor understand the language of 
these Indians ; so that I was under the greatest disadvantages imagina- 
ble. However, I attempted to discourse privately with some of them, 
but without any appearance of success : notwithstanding, I still tarried 
with them. 

In '.he evening they met together, nearly 100 of them, and danced 
around a large fire, having prepared ten fat deer for the sacrifice. 
The fat of the inwards they burnt in the fire while they were danc- 
ing, which sometimes raised the flame to a prodigious height ; at 
the same time yelling and shouting in such a manner that they 
might easily have been heard two miles or more. They continued 
their sacred dance nearly all night, after which they ate the flesh 
of the sacrifice, and so retired each one to his own lodging. 

I enjoyed little satisfaction ; being entirely alone on the island, 
as to any Christian company, and in the midst of this idolatrous 
revel; and having walked to and fro till body and mind were pain- 
ed and much oppressed, I at length crept into a little crib made 
for corn, and there slept on the poles. 

Lord's day, Sept. 21. — Spent the day with the Indians on the island. 
As soon as they were well up in the morning I attempted to in- 
struct them, and labored for that purpose to get them together ; 
but soon found they had something else to do; for near noon they 
gathered together all their powaws, or conjurers, and set about half 
a dozen of them playing their juggling tricks, and acting their fran- 
tic, distracted postures, in order to find out why they were then so 
sickly upon the island, numbers of them being at that time disor- 
dered with a fever and bloody flux. In this exercise they were 
engaged for several hours, making all the wild, ridiculous, and dis- 
tracted motions imaginable, sometimes singing, sometimes howling, 
sometimes extending their hands to the utmost stretch, and spread- 
ing all their fingers; they seemed to push with them as if they design- 
ed to push something away, or at least keep it ofl" at arm's end ; some- 
times stroking their faces with their hands, then spurting water as fine 
as mist; sometimes sitting flat on the earth, then bowing down their 
faces to the ground ; then wringing their sides as if in pain and anguish, 
' twisting their faces, turning up their eyes, grunting, puffing, &c. 

Their monstrous actions tended to excite ideas of horror, and seenaed 
to have something in them, as I thought, peculiarly suited to raise the 
devil, if be could be raised by anything odd, ridiculous, and frightful 



336 HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 

Some of them, I could observe, were much more fervent and -devout in 
the business than others, and seemed to chant, peep, and mutter with 
a great degree of warmth and vigor, as if determined to awaken and en- 
gage the powers below. I sat at a small distance, not more than thirty 
feel from them, though undiscovered, with my bible in my hand, resolv- 
ing, if poss.ble, to spoil their sport, and prevent their receiving any 
answers from the infernal world, and there viewed the whole scene. 
They continued their horrid charms and incantations for more than 
three hours, until they had all wearied themselves out; although they 
had in that space of time taken several intervals of rest; and at length 
broke up, I apprehended, without receiving any answer at all. 

After they had done powawing, I attempted to discourse with them 
about Christianity; but they soon scattered, and gave me no opportu- 
nity for anything of that nature. A view of these things, while I was 
entirely alone in the wilderness, destitute of the society of any one 
who so much as "named the name of Christ," greatly sunk my spiri's, 
and gave me the most gloomy turn of mind imaginable, almost stripped 
me of all resolution and hope respecting further attempts for propagat- 
ing the gospel and converting the pagans, and rendered this the most 
burdensome and disagreeable Sabbath which I ever saw. But nothing, 
I can truly say, sunk and distressed me like the loss of my hope re- 
specting their conversion. This concern appeared so great, and seemed 
to be so much my own, that I seemed to have nothing to do on earth if 
this failed. A prospect of the greatest success in the saving conversion 
of souls under gospel light would have done little or nothing towards 
compensating for the loss of my hope in this respect; and my spirits 
now were so damped and depressed, that I had no heart nor power to 
make any further attempts among them for that purpose, and could not 
possibly recover my hope, resolution, and courage, by the utmost of 
my endeavors. 

The Indians of this island can, many of them, understand the Eng- 
lish language considerably well, having formerly lived in some pari 
of Maryland, among or near the white people ; but are very drunken, 
vicious and profane, although not so savage as those who have less 
acquaintance with the English. Their customs, in various respects, 
differ from those of the other Indians upon this river. They do not 
bury their dead in a common form, but let their flesh consume above 
the ground, in close cribs made for that purpose- At the end of a 
year, or sometimes a longer space of time, they take the bones, when 
the flesh is all consu Tied, and wash and scrape them, and afterwards 
bury them with some ceremony. Their method of charming or con- 
juring over the sick, seems somewhat different from that of the other 
Indians, though in substance the same. The whole of it among these 
and others, perhaps, is an imitation of what seems, by Naaman's ex- 
pression, (2 Kings V. 11,) to have been the custom of the ancient hea- 
then. It seems chiefly to consist in their "striking their hands over 
the diseased," repeatedly stroking them, " and calling upon their god ;" 
except the spurting of water like a mist, and some other frantic cere- 
monies common to the other conjurations which I have already men- 
tioned. 

When I was in this region in May last, I had an opportunity of learn- 
ing many of the notions and customs of the Indians, as well as observ- 
ing many of their practices. I then travelled more than 130 miles 



HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 337 

apon the river, above the English settlements ; and in that journey met 
with individuals of seven or eight distinct tribes, speaking as many 
different languages. But of all the sights I ever saw among them, 
or indeed anywhere else, none appeared so frightful, or so near 
akin to what is usually imagined o( infernal powers, none ever excited 
such images of terror in my mind, as the appearance of one who was 
a devout and zealous reformer, or rather restorer of what he supposed 
was the ancient religion of the Indians. He made his appearance in 
his pontifical garb, which was a coat o{ bearskins, dressed with the hair 
on, and hanging down to his toes ; a pair of bear-skin stockings, and a 
great wooden face painted, the one half black, the other half tawny, 
about the color of the Indians' skin, with an extravagant mouth, cut 
very much awry; the face fastened to a bear skin cap, which was 
drawn over his head. He advanced towards me with the instrument 
in his hand which he used for music in his idolatrous worship ; 
which was a dry tortoise-shell with some corn in it, and the neck 
of it drawn on to a piece of wood, which made a very convenient 
handle. As he came forward he beat his tune with the rattle, and 
danced with all his might, but did not suffer any part of his body, 
not so much as his fingers, to be seen. No one would have imag- 
ined from his appearance or actions, that he could have been a hu- 
man creature, if they had not had some intimation of it otherwise. 
When he came near me I could not but shrink away from him, al- 
though it was then noonday, and I knew who it was; his appearance 
and gestures were so prodigiously frightful. He had a house conse- 
crated to religious uses, with divers images cut upon the several parts 
of it. I went in, and found the ground beat almost as hard as a rock, 
with their frequent dancing upon it. I discoursed with him about 
Christianity. Some of my discourse he seemed to like, but some of it 
he disliked extremely. He told me that God had taught him his reli- 
gion, and that he would never turn from it, but wanted to find some 
who would join heartily with him in it; for the Indians, he said, were 
grown very degenerate and corrupt. He had thoughts, he said, of leav- 
ing all his friends, and travelling abroad, in order to find some who 
would join with him; for he believed that God had some good people 
somewhere, who felt as he did. He had not always, he said, felt as he 
now did ; but had formerly been like the rest of thelndians,until about 
four or five years before that time. Then, he said, his heart was very 
much distressed, so that he could not live among the Indians, but 
got away into the woods, and lived alone for some months. At 
length, he said, God comforted his heart, and showed him what he 
should do; and since that time he had known God, and tried to 
serve him; and loved all men, be they who they would, so as he 
never did before. He treated me with uncommon courtesy, and 
seemed to be hearty in it. I was told by the Indians, that he op- 
posed their drinking strong liquor with all his power; and that, if 
at any time he could not dissuade them from it by all he could say, 
he would leave them, and go crying into the woods. It was manifest 
that he had a set of religious notions which he had examined for 
himself, and not taken for granted upon bare tradition ; and he rel- 
ished or disrelished whatever was spoken of a religious nature, as 
it either agreed or disagreed with his standard. While I was dis- 
coursing, he would sometimes say, "Now that I like ; so God has 

29 



338 



HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



taught me," &c.; and some of his sentiments seemed very just. Yet 
he utterly denied the existence of a devil, and declared there was no 
such creature known among the Indians of old times, whose religion 
he supposed he was attempting to revive. He likewise told me that 
departed souls went southward, and that the difference between the 
good and bad was this : that the former were admitted into a beauti- 
ful town with spiritual walls, and thai the latter would for ever hover 
around these walls in vain attempts to get in. He seemed to be sincere, 
honest, and conscientious in his own way, and according to his own 
religious notions ; which was more than I ever saw in any other pa- 
gan. I perceived that he was looked upon and derided among most 
of the Indians as a precise zealot, who made a needless noise about reli- 
gious matters ; but I must say that there was something in his temper 
and disposition which looked more like true religion than any thing I 
ever observed among other heathen. But, alas ! how deplorable is the 
state of the Indians upon this river! The brief representation which I 
have here given of their notions and manners is sufficient to show that 
they are led captive by Satan at his will," in the most eminent manner ; 
and methinks might likewise be sufficient to excite the compassion and 
engage the prayers of God's children for these their fellow-man, who. 
" sit in the region of the shadow ol death." — Memoirs. 

On the 23d of September Brainerd left the Indians and returned to 
the Forks of Delaware, (Bucks county, now Northampton). 

The following interesting facts were furnished by Mitchell 
Steever, Esq., of New Port, Perry county : 

"At one time when Mr. William Baskins, grand uncle to 
Cornelius and James Baskins, having a crop of grain on 
what is now called Duncan's Island (having however previ- 
ous removed his family to Fort Hunter for security) return- 
ed with part of his family to cut the grain; and while en- 
gaged, all on a sudden they were startled by the yell or 
whooping of Indians, who were hard by ; however, on dis- 
covering that they were neighbors, their alarms were quiet- 
ed ; but, alas ! they were deceived ; for the barbarous sava- 
ges, as soon as near enough, gave them distinctly to under- 
stand that their object was their scalps! At this moment, 
they all fled in consternation, hotly pursued, towards the 
house, and when there, Mr. Baskins, in the act of getting 
his gun, was shot dead and scalped ; his wife, a daughter of 
about seven, and a son three years old, were abducted. A 
Mr. McClean who was also in the field, plunged into the 
river and swam the Juniata, at what is called the " Sheep 
Island," and concealed himself in the cleft of rocks, on the 
opposite side, and thus eluded the pursuit of the savages and 
sared his life. 

Mrs. Baskins effected her escape from the Indians some 



HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 339 

where near Carlisle; the daughter was taken to the Miami 
country, west of the Ohio, then an unbroken wilderness, 
where she was detained for more than six years, when in 
conformity to a treaty made with the Indians, she was de- 
livered up, and returned. She was afterwards married to 
Mr. John Smith, whose son James is now residing in New 
Port, Perry county, and to whom I am indebted for this in- 
teresting tradation. The lad, that was taken at the same 
time, was carried to Canada, where he was raised by Sir 
William Johnston, not knowing the name of the boy, when 
he was baptised by a missionary, was named, Timothy Mur- 
phy. He was afterwards discovered by Alexander Stevens, 
Mr. James Stevens' father, who resides in Juniata township, 
Perry county, by some peculiar mark on his head. He has 
visited his friends in Perry. James Smith, his nephew, when 
at Canada in defence of his country, during the late war, 
visited him and found him comfortably situated near Maiden 
in Upper Canada, and the owner of a large estate." — See 
Chap. vii. 

The present Clark's Ferry, near Duncan's Island, was 
called Queenashawakee by the Indians, and the Juniata near 
by it was spelled Choniata. This ferry was once a great 
fording place — a little above it, at the White Rock, on the 
river side, John Harris had, in 1733, a house and some 
fields cleared, which was complained of by the Indians. 



CHAPTER XXII. 

Original settlers — Present population — Education — Relief of the Poor. 

In preceding pages it has been stated that settlements had 
been made within the present bounds of Dauphin, prior to 
1719 or 1720. Prior to 1729, or 1730, all that portion 
south of the Blue mountain, was settled. James Logan, in a 
letter to John Penn, Esq. dated February 27th, 1731-2, 
says, " I must further observe that almost all the lands on 
Susquehanna, south of the hills above Pextang, that bound 
what is habitable on the east side of the rivers are generally 
settled by our people, though the Five Nations still claim 
them.— Haz. Reg. of Pa. iii. 210. 

The townships in the southern and eastern portion of the 
county, (then Chester county) were settled prior to 1719 or 
1720 ; Pextang, or Harris's, at an earlier period, and Mc- 
Callister's, then Chambers's, prior to 1729 or 1730. 

The first settlers, with few exceptions, were from the north 
of Ireland ; some from Scotland, and were usually called 
" The Scotch Irish." They possessed all the indispensable 
qualities requisite to make good pioneer settlers. Dauntless 
and valorous were they. Educated as Presbyterians, they 
had strong hopes of becoming the undisturbed possessors of 
the lands still, to some extent occupied by the tawny sons of 
the woods ; this they did, but at the cost of many a helpless 
child, an endeared bosom companion, a father, a mother, or 
some friend or relative; for during the French and Indian 
w^ar, from 1755 to 1763, many fell victims to the cruel sav- 
ages then marauding the frontier settlements, as the attentive 
reader will have observed from Chap, vii.-xi., pp. 85, 88, 
95, 100, 102, 103, 118, 123, 126, 128, 130, 133, 141. 

Owing to the want of fire arms, ammunition, &c., and not 
living as contiguous as people in older settled countries, they 
were obliged to abandon their houses and farms. 

Perhaps all would have left this region of country, had it 
not been for some bold and daring men amongst them, of this 
number none was more conspicuous than Rev- John Elder, 



HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 341 

who shared in the sufferings of the settlers. At that event- 
ful time, "he collected around him th%aged, and the women 
fled to him for succor. Here by day and night, under the 
wide canopy of heaven, with true confiding faith in God, with 
rifle in hand, he poured forth his eloquent aspirations for the 
safety of his congregational charge- To attack him was not 
even attempted by the hostile and merciless savages, who that 
day made a descent down the Susquehanna, and fell upon 
the unsuspicious, murdering and scalping with savage butch- 
ery, the exposed settlers. 

" On Sunday he preached to his congregation ; every man 
had his loaded rifle — two rifles were in the pulpit. As was 
expected, the Indians approached them, laying in ambush, 
sent a spy to reconnoitre, who reported that two rifles were 
in his desk; they then hastened away, committing many mur- 
ders on their return." 

The Revd. Elder, as well as other pastors of congrega- 
tions in various parts of the frontiers, animated the people to 
manfully resist the hostile foe. 

Richard Peters, in writing under date of Philadelphia, May 
'3d, 1758, to George Stevenson, of York, Pa., says, "The 
ministers should be desired, in diff"erent and proper parts of 
the county, and at proper distances, as their congregations 
may be seated, to appoint meetings, and animate the people 
to raise levees with all possible despatch, as they are design- 
ed, by one vigorous effort to dispossess the enemy, regain 
the Indians, and establish a durable and advantageous peace." 

Mr. Stevenson, in answer to Mr. Peters, under date of 
York, May 21st, 1758, says, "The Revd. Mr. Craddock 
gave me the pleasure of a visit, and preached an excellent 
war sermon from Mr. Lishy's* pulpit, on Friday last, in the 
hearing of the Revd. Barton, Bay and Lishy; he went with 
Mr. Barton yesterday ; is to deliver another sermon to the 
same purpose to-day, from Mr. Barton's pulpit." 

This contracted war and its concomitant scenes, infused a 
military and adventurous spirit into the young men, and we 
find them ready, at any moment, to repel the enemy, protect 
at imminent hazard of their lives, fathers, mothers, brothers 

* The Rev'd. Lishy had charge of several German Reformed con- 
gregations, in York county at the time, viz : Yorktown, Kreutz creek 
Codorus, and at Bermudiau creek. — His, York co. p. 694. ' 

29* 



342 HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 

sisters and relations ; for that purpose ranging along the bor- 
ders of the exposed fj^ntiers, watching the clandestine or se- 
cret movements of the enemy, (who, they knew would steal 
upon them in the dead of night, in the unguarded hour of re- 
pose — while at meal, at work in the field ; and that the in- 
nocent and helpless, would alike, without respect to sex or 
age, fall victims to the savages)-cutting off occasional sav- 
age parties, and breaking up their secret haunts. 

Circumstanced as they were, they knew of no other course 
to pursue than to protect themselves against all whom they 
had reason to suspect as principals of, or accessaries to, the 
numerous murders committed upon the whites ; and, it may 
be, it was under the apprehension that the Indians at Cones- 
togo, in Manor township, Lancaster county, were not " free 
from the blood of the whites," that induced the Paxton 
Boys to make that dreadful onslaught, they did, of which 
some account has been given in a preceding page. — See 
Chap. vii. 

The following, from the pen of Mr. R. C, a gentleman 
of more than ordinary research, is here introduced, as being 
to the point. 

In ] 760 the inhabitants of Lancaster county were in con- 
stant alarm, from murders and depredations committed by 
the Indians. 

They represented to the Assembly " that large bodies of 
hunters killed deer and other game upon the Indian Hunt- 
ing Grounds ; that this land was given to the Indians by 
treaty ; that the hunters treated the defenceless Indians with 
great cruelty ; that the resentment of the Indians was roused ; 
they therefore requested the Government to protect them 
from the Indians, hy the payment of scouting parties, as not 
only their property but their lives were threatened." 

A company of rangers was raised by the settlers, to act as 
a guard upon the borders of the county, and prevent any in- 
cursions by the Indians. 

1761 general alarm and consternation prevailed among the 
settlers, from murders committed on the whites, with the 
burning of the cabins at night ; such were the acts of atro- 
city committed by the Indians, at the time when their un- 
suspected victims were asleep. The Indians always appear- 
ed where the inhabitants were unprotected, or in fancied se- 
cnrity ; they showed no mercy. 



HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 343 

Imagination cannot conceive the perils with which the set- 
tlement of Paxton was surrounded from 1754 to 1756. To 
portray each scene of horror would be impossible — the heart 
shrinks from the attempt. The settlers were goaded on to 
desperation; murder followed murder ; scouts brought in the 
intelligence that the murderers were traced to Conestogue. 
Riflles were loaded, horses were in readiness. The mounted ; 
they called on their pastor to lead them. He was then in 
the 57th year of his age. Had you seen him then, you 
would have beheld a superior being. He had mounted, not 
to lead them on to the destruction of Conestogue, but to de- 
ter them from the att( mpt ; he implored them to return, he 
urged them to reflect; "pause, pause, before you proceed." 
It was in vain; "the blood of the murdered cries aloud for 
vengenance; we have waited long enough on government ; 
the murderers are within our reach, and they must not es- 
cape." Mr. Elder, reminded them that the "guilty and the 
innocent could not be distinguished." "Innocent! can they 
be called innocent who foster murderers?" Mr. Elder rode 
up in front, and said, "As your pastor, I command you to 
relinquish your design." "Give way, then," said Smith, "or 
your horse dies," presenting his rifle ; to save his horse, to 
which he was much attached, Mr. E. drew him aside, and 
the rangers were off on their fatal errand.* 

A palhating letter was written by the Rev. Mr. Elder to 
Gov. Penn, in which the character of Stewart is represented 
as humane, liberal and religious. 

The Rev. Mr. Elder died at the advanced age of 86 years, 
in 1792, on his farm adjoining Harrisburg, beloved in life, 
and in death lamented. He frequently visited the Indians at 
Conestogue, Pequehan, and the Big Island, and was much re- 
spected by them. He had frequently represented to the 
Christian Indians the wrong they were doing to the whites 
by admitting stranger Indians among them ; conduct which 
made them suspected of treachery. 

Extract of a letter from the Rev. Mr. Elder, to Governor 
Hamilton, dated September 13, 1763: 

• Upon what authority Mr. R. C. makes this slaiement, I know not; 
if it \smere tradition, there maybe a mistake (see Rev'd Elder's letter 
p. 163, 164. It is recorded in a very popular work, that the people of 
Cumberland county, took an active part with the Paxton Boys." The 
following extract shows how far they were concerned. 



344 HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 

" I suggest to you the propriety of an immediate removal 
of the Indians from Conestogue, and placing a garrison in 
their room. In case this is done, I pledge myself for the fu- 
ture security of the frontier." — See p. 164. 

Carlisle, Dec. 28, 1763. 
I have the pleasure to inform your Honor that not one person of the 
county of Cumberland, so far as I can learn has either been consulted, 
or concerned in that inhuman and scandalous piece of butchery — and 
I should be very sorry that even the people of this county should attempt 
avenging their injuries on the heads of a few inoffensive superannuated 
savages, whom nature had already devoted to the dust. 

JouK Akmstuoko. 
Gov. John Penn. 

Companies, each consisting of an officer, and fifteen men, 
were stationed, as late as June, 1764, in various parts of this 
and adjacent counties east of the Susquehanna river. In Pax- 
ton township, at Fort Hunter, was Ensign James Foster ; at 
David Patten's, Capt. S. Hunter. In Hanover township, 
Manady Gap, was Lieut. J. Lycans ; at John Cameron's, 
Capt. Timothy Green ; at John McFarling's, was Lieut. 
Charles Stewart: at Godfried Young's, was Ensign Thomas 
Cambleton. Farther eastward, in Bethel township (Leba- 
non,) was Capt. P. De Haas, with eighteen men ; at Reh- 
rer, in Bethe) township, (Berks,) was Lieut. J. Seely, with 
fourteen men. 

Present population. Though, at present, the majority 
of the inhabitants are Germans, but few had settled within 
the limits of it prior to 1745 or 1750. Among the earliest 
German settlers, are found the names of Gabriel, Schultz, 
Stern, Musser, Rosebaum, Ricker, Schwar, Boor, Lichty, 
Roth, Schitz, Hailman, Sues, and others. Shortly prior to, 
and imiTiediately after the revolution of '76, the Germans 
were numerous. At the opening of the revolution, most of 
the Paxton, Derry, and other early settlers, sought the ranks 
of the army, from which but few returned to live in Paxton, 
&c. Consequently, comparatively few of the Scotch Irish's 
descent'ants are to be found in this county. Not less than 
two-thirds are Germans; and of those, nearly all speak the 
language of their Vaterland — and nearly all speak, or at least 
understand English ; and these reside most numerously on the 
borders of Lebanon and Schuylkill, and in the upper part of 
the county. In several parts of the county, some French 



HISTORY OF DAUPHIN COUNTY. 345 

descendants, principally Huguenots, are to be found. In the 
upper part of the county, near and about David's church, are 
several families of Huguenot descendants. 

Education is on the advance since the introduction of the 
Common School system, which is now (1845)almost general- 
ly adopted m the county. Lykens and Bush townships,have 
not accepted the provisions of the law. Nineteen school dis- 
tricts have adopted the system, in which ninety-eight schools 
are kept open about five months and a half in the county, 
and twelve months m the borough of Harrisburg. Teachers 
receive from $13 to $15 per month. 

The Religious Denominations are Presbyterian, German 
Reformed, Lutheran, Methodist, United Brethren in Christ, 
Mennonites, Episcopalian, Baptist, Evangelical Association' 
Dunkard, German Baptist, or Taeufer, Univeralist, Church 
of God, Roman Catholic. 

Poor House. Ample provision is made for the support of 
the unfortunate poor. There is a poor house, to which a 
\yell improved farm is attached, about two miles east of Har- 
risburg, near to, and south of the turnpike road leading to 
Reading. It is said the affairs of the establishment are well 
managed. 



HISTORY OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY. 



CHAPTER XXIII. 



CUMBERLAND COUNTY 



Cumberland county, Act erecting it, &c. ; Trustees to define the boun- 
dary between York and Cumberland, appointed ; The Trustees disa- 
greed ; Boundary determined; Petition touching it; Ch'ambers' letter 
in relation thereto ; Shavvanese, and other Indians in Cumberland, 
their villages, &c. They complain, &c. ; report relative thereto; 
Paxton or Louther Manor, resurveyed ; Influx of immigrants ; Pe- 
tition for, and, a road laid out, &c. ; Pennsboro, and Hopewell town- 
ship erected ; Antrim township erected; Extracts from the Commis- 
sioners' book of Lancasler county; Early settlers, and taxables in 
1751. 

Cumberland county, named after a maratime county of 
England, on the borders of Scotland, was erected in 1750. 
It was then the sixth county in the State : Philadelphia, 
Bucks and Chester having been established in 1682, Lancas- 
ler in 1729, and York in 1749. This county was separated 
from Lancaster county, upon the representation by a petition 
presented to the Assembly by James Silver and William 
Magaw of the inhabitants of the North Valley, then so call- 
ed, residing in the western part of Lancaster county, west 
of the Susquehanna, of the great hardships they laid under, 
by being very remote from Lancaster, where the courts were 
held — some of them one hundred miles distant — and the pub- 
lic officers kept ; and how hard and difficult it was for the 
" sober and quiet part " of the North Valley to secure them- 
selves against thefts and other abuses, frequently committed 
by idle and dissolute persons, who, to escape punishment, re- 



HISTORY OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY. 347 

sorted to the more remote parts of the province, and owing 
to the great distance from the court or prison, frequently es- 
caped — considering all these things, it was provided by the 
Assembly, January 27, 1750, to remedy the inconveniencies 
complained of, as set forth in the petition ; and a county was 
erected — bounded as follows, " That, all and singular lands 
lying within the Province of Pennsylvania, to the westward 
of Susquehanna, and northward and westward of the 
county of York, be erected into a county, to be called Cum- 
berland; bounded northward and westward with the line 
of the Province, eastward partly with the river Susque- 
hanna, and partly with said county of York ; and south- 
ward in part by the line dividing the said Province from 
that of Maryland. The ample limits of Cumberland were 
at different periods, subsequently reduced. 

Robert McCoy, Benjamin Chambers, David Magaw, Jas. 
McEntire, and John McCormick, as trustees, all of the coun- 
ty aforesaid, yeomen, or any three of them, were authorized 
to purchase and take'assurance to them and their heirs of a 
piece of land, situate in some convenient place in the said 
county, to be approved of by the Governor, in trust and for 
the use of the inhabitants of the said county, and thereon 
to erect and build a court-house and piison, sufficient to ac- 
commodate the public service of the said county, and for the 
ease and conveniency of the inhabitants. 

The commissioners and assessors were authorized to raise 
a sura of money, not to exceed three hundred pounds, to 
purchase the land, and furnishing the court-house and prison. 

By the same act, Benjamin Chambers was appointed col- 
lector of the Excise of the said county. 

And, to the end the boundaries of the said counties of 
York and Cumberland may the better be ascertained, it was 
further enacted, that it shall be lawful to and for the trustees 
named in this act, and the act of Assembly by which the 
said county of York* was erected into a county, or to and 
for a majority of each of them, and they are hereby requir- 
ed and firmly enjoined, within the space of six months 
next after the publication of this act, to assemble themselves 
together, and with the assistance of one or more surveyors, 

• The trustees of York county were Thomas Coi, Michael Tanner, 
George Swope, Nathan Hussey and John Wright, jr. 



348 HISTORY OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY. 

by them respectfully to be provided, to run, mark out, and 
distinguish, the boundary line between the said counties of 
York and Cumberland ; and the charges thereof shall be de- 
frayed equally between the inhabitants of the said counties, 
and to that end levied and raised by the said inhabitants, in 
such manner as other public money, for the use of the said 
counties, by law ought to be raised and levied. 

When the Commissioners or Trustees of Cumberland and 
York county met, to tlx the boundary line, they disagreed. 
Those of Cumberland wished it, that the dividing line com- 
mence opposite the mouth of the Sw^atara creek, and run 
along the ridge of the South mountain, while those of York 
county claimed that it should follow up the Yellow Breeches 
creek. The difficulties were settled by an act, passed Feb- 
ruary 9th, 1751 . The act says, " But for as much as the 
ridge of mountains, called the South Mountain, along which 
the lines, dividing the said counties of York and Cumberland, 
were directed to be run by the several herein before men- 
tioned acts, before the river Susquehanna, to the mouth of a 
run of water, called Dogwood Run, is discontinued, much 
broken, and not easily to be distinguished, whereby great 
differences have arisen between the trustees of the said coun- 
ties, concerning the manner of running said line ; by which 
means the boundaries of said counties, between the river 
Susquehanna and the mouth of aforesaid run of water called 
Dogwood Run, are altogether unsettled, and so likely to 
continue, to the great injury of the said counties, and to the 
frustrating the good purposes by the herein before mentioned 
acts of Assembly intended, for the preventing hereof, it is 
hereby enacted. That the creek, called Yellow-breeches 
creek, from the mouth thereof, where it empties into the ri- 
ver Susquehanna aforesaid, up the several courses thereof, to 
the mouth of a run of water, called Dogwood Run, and from 
thence on one continued straight line, to be run to the ridge 
of mountains, called the South mountain, until it intersect 
the Maryland line, shall be, and is hereby declared to be, the 
Boundary line between said counties of York and Cumber- 
land." 

A petition from the commissioners of Cumberland county, 
appointed with the commissioners of York county to run the 
division line between the said counties was presented to the 
Assembly; setting forth that the York commissioners refus- 



HISTORY OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY. 349 

ing to run the line, agreeable to the act of Assembly, the pe- 
titioners conceived it their duty to do it themselves, and ac- 
cordino-ly began opposite to the mouth of Swahatara, on 
Sasquehannah river, and then took the courses and distances 
along the highest ridge of the mountain, without crossing 
any running water, till they struck the middle of the rnain 
body of the South Mountain, at James Caruther's plantation; 
a true draught whereof is annexed to the petition. That 
the draught of the line, and places adjacent, laid before the 
house by the York commissioners, as far as relates to the 
waters, and courses, is altogether imaginary, and grounded 
on no actual survey ; those commissioners having no survey- 
or with them, nor so much as attempting to chain an part of 
it. That the petitioners would willingly agree to the pro- 
posal of making Yellow-breeches creek the boundary, if that 
draught had any tryth in it ; but as it is altogether false, and 
the making that creek the line would actually cut off a great 
part of the North Valley, reduce it to a point on Sasque- 
hannah, and make the county quite irregular ; the petition- 
ers pray, that the line in the draught to their petition an- 
nexed may be confirmed, or a straight line granted from the 
mouth of Swahatara, to the middle of the South Mountain; 
was presented to the house and read — ordered to lie on the 
table.— (Votes Assem. iv. 154. 8th mo. 18th 1750.) 

The following letter from Mr. Chambers to Richard Pe- 
ters, Secretary, bears upon the subject in. controversy, and 
shows his reason why he was opposed to a change or altera- 
tion in the division line: 

Cumberland county, Oct. 8th 1750. 
"- Sir — I received your letter in which you enclosed the draughts 'of the 
line run by the Commissioners of York county and ours; and if the 
branches of the Yellow britches and Great Canewago interlocked in 
the South Mountain, as laid down in the aforesaid draught, I would he 
of opinion with the Assembly that a line consisting of such a variet}' 
of courses could not be a good boundary between two counties. I can 
assure you that the courses that we, the Commissioners of Cumberland, 
tun, we chained, and have returned by course and distance the Ridge 
of the mountain, and can send our deposition, that we crossed no run- 
ning water above ground, and that we have run it past Capt. Dills, ilH 
we are in the middle of the mountains as laid down in the red line in 
their draught, so that our draughts will show you that theirs is but an 
imaginary of the waiers, done by some friend of York county, who had 
DO regard for our country's welfare ; for we sent our return to I? laid 
before the Assembly, at the same time that York county laid this on^ 
before them; that your Honor was pleased to send me, but our mes- 

30 



350 HISTORY OF CUMBERLAND COUNt,. 

senger did not deliver our return to the House, or if he had, I suppose 
they would not have troubled, his Honor, the Governor, to send any 
further instructions to us, for I humbly suppose that there cannot be 
any better boundary than the Ridge of the mountain, for were there a 
line run to cross the heads of the waters of both sides and the marks 
grown old it would be hard for a hunter to tell which county the wolf 
was killed in, but he may easily tell whether it was killed on the de- 
scent of the north or south valley waters. Likewise a sheriff, when he 
goes to any house, where he is not acquainted, and enquires at the 
house whether that water falls into the north or south valley, can tell 
whether they live in his county or not, which he could not tell by a 
line crossing the heads of the waters of both sides till he made him- 
self acquainted with said line; so that if you will give yourself the 
trouble to enquire at any of the authors of that draft that was laid be- 
fore the Assembly, you will find that they never chained any part of 
their line to know the distance, and therefore cannot be capable to lay 
down the heads of the waters. 

Sir, I hope you will send me a few lines to let me know, if our re- 
turn be confirmed, or we must run it over again ; but you may believe 
that the Ridge of the mountain, and heads of the waters are as laid 
down in our return ; and we run it at the lime we went wiih you to Mr. 
Croghans, and did not expect to have any further trouble; and I yet 
think, that his Honor, the governor , will confirm our return, or order 
them to disapprove of it by course and distance. 

Sir, I am your Honor's most humble servant, 

Benjamin Chambers. 

The Six Nations, calling themselves, Aquanuschioni, i. e. 
The United People, had not yet sold the lands, within the 
bounds of Cumberland, to the proprietaries, when the Irish 
and Scotch Irish, first commenced settling in the North Val- 
ley, or Cumberland Valley. The Indians were still numer- 
ous ; the Shawanes, called brothers, by the Iriquois or Six 
Nations, were at one time quite a conspicuous people inhab- 
iting the woods on the West Branch of the Susquehanna, 
and parts of Cumberland county; as well as the Valley of 
Wyoming. 

The Shawanese, it would appear, formerly lived in Flori- 
da, and were reduced to a small number, by their wars with 
the Moschko nation. The greater part of them retired to 
the Ohio, and the rest to the Susquehanna, without an fixed 
habitation at first. Those from Georgia and Carolina came 
into the province of Pennsylvania about the year 1689, and 
settled at first, by the consent of the Susquehanna Indians 
and William Penn, on the flats of Conestogo ; but after- 
wards consented to leave Conestogo and occupy lands west 
of the Susquehanna on the Conodoguinette creek ; and under 



HISTORY OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY. 351 

the more immediate protection of the Susquehanna Indians, 
and were called, by them, nephew, in common with the Mo- 
hikans. 

Owing to some misdeeds of their young men, about the 
year 1726 or 1727, and fearing the Six Nations, the greater • 
part of them, removed to the river Ohio, about 1728 or 1729, 
and then afterwards put themselves under the protection of 
the French ; and in common wHth the Delawares, took up the 
hatchet against the English. 

As early as 1730, the French made efforts to disaffect the 
Shawanese towards the English and secure their influence 
themselves. Governor Goi don in a message to the Provin- 
cial Council, August 4, 1731, says, "That by advices late- 
ly brought to him by several traders (from Ohio) in those 
parts, it appears that the French have been using endeavors 
to gain over those Indians (Shawanese) to their interest, and 
for this end a French gentleman had come among them some 
years since, sent as it was believed, from the governor of 
Montreal, and at his departure last year, carried with him 
some of the Shawanese chiefs to that government, with whom 
they at their return appeared to be highly pleased. That 
the same French gentleman, with five or six others in com- 
pany with him, had this last spring again come amongst the 
said Indians and brought with him a Shawanese interpreter, 
was well received by them. — Prov. Reg. iii. 428. 

Hdaquantagechty a distinguished chief, said, in a council 
held at Philadelphia August 25, 1732 " That last fall (1731) 
the French interpreter Cahichtodo, came to Ohio river (or 
Allegheny) to build houses there, and to supply the Indians 
with goods &c. 

At the same conference with the Indians (August 26, 1731) 
among other things, "They were told that the Shawanese 
who were settled to the Southward, being made uneasy by 
their neighbors, about sixty families of th^m came up to con- 
estogoe, about thirty-five years since (1697 or '98) and de- 
sired leave of the Susquehanna Indians, who were planted 
there, to settle on that river ; that those Susquehanna In- 
dians applied to this government that they might accordingly 
settle, and they would become answerable for their good be- 
havior. That our late proprietor arriving soon after the 
chief of the Shawanese and of the Susquehannahs came to Phil- 
adelphia and renewed their application ; that the proprietor 



352 HISTORY OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY. 

agreed to their settlement, and the Shawanese thereupon came 
under the protection of this government ; that from that time 
greater numbers of Indians f( Jlowed them, and settled on the 
Susquehanna and Delaware ; that as they had joined them- 
selves to the Susquehanna Indians who were dependent on 
the Five Nations, they thereby fell also under their protec- 
tion. That we bad held several treaties with those Shawan- 
ese, and from their first coming were accounted and treated 
as our own Indians, but that some of their young men having 
between four or five years since (1727 or 1728) committed 
some disorders, though we had it fully made up with them, 
yet being afraid of the Six Nations, they had removed back 
wards to Ohio, and there had lately put themselves under 
the protection of the French, who had received them as their 
children. That we had sent a message to them to return, 
and to encourage them had laid out a large tract of land on 
the- west of the Susquehanna, round the principal town where 
they had been last settled, and we desired by all means they 
■would return thither."— Prov. Rec. iii. 471, '72. 

When the whites commenced settling, about the year 1730 
or 1731, in Cumberland, though the lands had not been pur- 
chased, it was nevertheless by permission from the Indians, 
whom the first settlers conciliated ; and encouragement from 
the proprietary agents. 

The Indians had towns and wigwams in various parts of 
Cumberland valley. There were several of these in the low- 
er parts of the county, on the banks of the Susquehanna, 
Yellow Breeches, Conodoguinette and other places in the 
valley which was then without any timber on it. 

There was an Indian town opposite Harris's (a little north 
of Esq. Will's) just where are heaps of muscle shells— they 
ate them much. Another town was at the mouth of Conodo- 
guinette creek, two miles above ; and there was one at the 
mouth of the Yellow Breeches creek, or Haldiraan's bridge, 
which was once James Chartiers' landing place. — Watson's 
Annals, ii. 

They also had a number of wigwams on the banks of the 
Conodoguinette creek, north of the turnpike, three miles from 
the Susquehanna, on land, late the property of Michael Ruby 
deceased. There were also several cabins half a mile north 
of Frieden^s Kirche, near Daniel Scherbahn's, Hamden town- 
ship. An aged aunt, the surviving consort of Martin Rupp, 



HISTORY OF CUMBERLAND COUNTlf. 3-53 

late of Hamden township, informed me that she remembers 
well the evacuated Indian huts, north of Frieden's Kirche, 
and those at Ruby's. 

The Indians had a path, crossing the Conodoguinette, near 
those wigwaras, through lands now owned by John Rupp, ■ 
George Rupp, sen., John Sheely, Daniel Mohler, and others, 
towards Yellow Breeches. 

The Shawanese and JDelawares, as has been stated, were 
seduced by the French, and greatly disaffected towards the 
English, and afterwards headed by Shingas and Capt. Ja- 
cobs,* both Delawares, took up the hatchet against them, as- 
signing as a reason for that course of conduct, that satisfac- 
tion had not been made them for lands, surveyed into the 
Proprietary's Manor, on Conodoguinette creek. A committee 
was appointed to consider their complaints, and investigate 
the validity of their claims. The following is the commit- 
tee's report, given entire. 

" By order of the council of the 19th day of November, 
1755 — to enquire particularly whether the chiefs of the 
Shawanese did not, in 175'^, complain to this government, 
that satisfaction had not been made to them by the proprie- 
taries for a large tract of land, part of which was surveyed 
into the Proprietary Manor on Condoguinette, and whether 
they were not promised that application should be immedi- 
ately made to the proprietaries, in their behalf, to obtain the 
satisfaction they desired ; and whether such application had 
been made, and tlie satisfaction obtained and given. This 
matter being referred to us, as a committee of said council, 
to examine all proper persons, and to inspect the council 
books, Indian treaties, and other books and papers that 
could furnish us with any lights into the subject matter — 

* Capt. Jacobs wa? dauntless and reckless. When Col. Armstrong 
routed the Indians at Kittaning in the summer of 1756, Capt, JacobE, 
with some warriors took possession of his house in Kittaning town, de- 
fended themselves for sometime, and killed a number of men. As Jacobs 
could speak English, our people called on him to surrender. He said, 
that he and his men were warriors, and ihey would all fisht while life 
remained. He was again told that they should be well used if they would 
surrender; and if not, the house should be burnt down over their heads. 
Jacobs replied he could eat fire — John Ferguson, a soldier, set fire to the 
house — and when the house was in flames, the Capt. a«d all with him, 
cameout inafighting position — his squaw wielded a tomahawk afew 
minutes before she fell — they were all killed that came out of the hoase. 

30* 



354 HISTORY OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY. 

and to make our report thereon, We now report, that we 
have perused the printed treaty held by Richard Peters, 
Isaac Norris, and Benjamin Franklin, Esq., by special com- 
mission from this government, with the said Delaware and 
Shawanese Indians, &c., at Carlisle, in October 1753, which 
we suppose was the time and place alluded to by the As- 
sembly in their second message, of the said Indians making- 
such complaint of their not having received satisfaction for 
the said large tract of land, expecting to see some notice ta- 
ken therein of such complaints; but not finding in it any 
mention made thereof, we applied to the said Mr. Peters, to 
know whether he remembered any such complaint to have 
been made by the said Indians at Carlisle, or elsewhere, or 
of any promise to make an application for them to the pro- 
prietaries for such satisfaction; to which he answered, that 
he did not remember ever to have heard at Carlisle, or else- 
where, of any such complaint being made by the said In- 
dians, or any of them, or that any promise was ever given 
of making application on their behalf to the proprietaries 
for such satisfaction; and that he never understood that the 
Shawanese had or could have any right to the said land, or 
any other land in this Province. 

That in order to find what right the said Indians had or 
claimed to the said large tract of land, and whether there 
was any just foundation for such a complaint, we have in- 
spected all the minutes of the council, and other books and 
papers that we conceived could assist us in the said enquiry, 
and find, that the nation of Iiidians, called the Shawanese, 
are Southern Indians, who, being rendered uneasy by their 
neighbors, came up to Conestogo about the year 1698, mak- 
ing about sixty families, and desired leave of the Susque- 
hanna Indians, who then lived there, to settle on that river. 
That the Susquehanna Indians applied to this government, 
that the Shawanese might be admitted to settle, and said, 
that they would become answerable for their good behavior. 
That the first Proprietary, William Penn, Esq., arriving 
soon after this transaction, the chiefs of the Shawanese and 
Susquehanna Indians came to Philadelphia, and renewing 
their said application, the Proprietary agreed to their settle- 
ment there ; whereupon the Shawanese came under the pro- 
tection of this government. From that time greater num- 
bers of those Indians followed them, and settled on Susque- 



HISTORY OP CUMBERLAJUD COUNTY. 355 

hanna and the Upper parts of Delaware. That as they had 
joined themselves to the Susquehanna Indians, who were de- 
pendent on the Five Nations, they thereby fell also under 
their protection. That several treaties were held with those 
amongst the other Indians at different times by this govern- 
ment ; and from their first coming, they were accounted and 
treated as our own Indians. That some of their young men, 
about the year 1727, committed some disorders in this pro- 
vince, and though the government had fully forgiven them 
for these outrages, yet, being on that account threatened by 
and therefore afraid of the Six Nations, they removed to the 
Ohio river in the year 1728 or 1729, and, there soon after, 
put themselves under the protection of the French, who re- 
ceived them as their children. That messages were sent 
from this government to them to return to us; and applica- 
tions were made to the Six Nations to interpose and prevail 
on them to do so. And the better to induce and encourage 
them to leave the French, a large tract of land was offered 
them on the west side of Susqnelianna, where they had been 
settled before, and they were desired by all means to return 
thither. That the Proprietary Thomas Penn, upon his ar- 
rival in the year 1732, again pressed them to return and live 
on this land, which he promised should be always kept for 
them, and their children, if they would come and live upon 
it ; but they declined it, saying, they were afraid of their 
enemies, the Tuteloes, and that it was not convenient for 
their hunting, but desired that the land might be kept for 
them, which it has ever since been. 

But we find the Assembly are mist.iken in their said se- 
cond message, in saying. That part of the said large tract 
. was surveyed into the Proprietary Manor on Cono.loguinelte;. 
for the fact was, that in order the more elfectually to keep 
off any other settlers on the large tract, the proprietaries 
caused the whole of it to be surveyed as a Proprietory Ma- 
nor. And in looking into many of the Proprietory Indian 
purchases, we find that this land had been bought over and 
over again by the proprietaries, as well of the Susquehanna 
Indians as of the Six Nations to whom it did belong. 

We thought proper to report these matters thus particu- 
larly, that it might appear evident that the Shawanese did 
not originally belong to this province, and never had any 
fight to any lands in it, or made any pretentions thereto, 



356 HISTORY OP CUMBERLAND COUNTT. 

but that the proprietories, from favor, and to encourage those 
Indians to remove from the neighborhood of the French, 
and live among us, offered them the said lands for their 
habitations." Robert Strettell, 

Joseph Turner, 
Thomas Cadwallader. 

The Manor on Conodoguinette was, as will appear from the 
following, kindly furnished by Col. R. M. Grain, Esq., sur- 
veyed and divided, and sold by the proprietors to those first 
named after the No. and acres. This Manor embraced all 
the land between the Conodoguinette and Yellow Breeches 
creek, extending as far west as the road leading from the 
Conodoguinette to the Yellow Breeches, past the Stone 
church or Frieden's Kirch, and immediately below Shire- 
manstown. 

Manor of Paxton or Louther, surveyed at an early date. 

In 1765 this Manor was surveyed by John Armstrong and divided ; 
and in 1767, it was resurveyed by John Lukens. The Manor was di- 
vided in twenty-eight lots or parcels, each of from one hundred and 
fifty to five hundred acres and upwards. The following exhibits, at 
one view, the No. of each lot; acres; names of first purchasers, &c. 

No. 1. 530 acres: Captain John Stewart, late John Rupley, Jacob 
Rupley and Jacob Moltz; now Haldeman's, George Rupley's heirs and 
others. 

No. 2. 267^ acres: John Boggs, !ate Christian Erb and others. 300 
acres: Casper Weber, late Jacob Eichelberger and Wormley, now 
Brenneman and others. 256 acres: Col. John Armstrong, late John 
Wormley, Howard Moore and others, now Hummel and Lebkicher. — 
227 acres: James Wilson, now Alexander Wills, and the heirs of H. 
Falton. 227 acres: Robert Whitehill. (la'ely occupied by Col. R. M. 
Grain,) now Michael Feree, and the town of Whitehill. 

No. 3. 200 acres. 

No. 4. 206 acres: Moses Wallace, now Alexander Wills. 

No. 5. 200 acres: John Wilson, now the heirs of William Mateer, 
and others. 

No. 6. 267 acres: No. 7. 283 acres : John Mish, now Zimmerman 
and others. 

No. 8. 275 acres: Richard Rogers, late Jacob Weaver and others, 
uow Markel and others. 

No. 9. 195 acres: Late Conrad Renninger, now Renninger's heir.s, 
and John Sheely. 

No. 10. 183 acres: Casper Weaver, now John Heck, late Solomon 
Oorgas, now Gorgas' heirs. 

No. H. 134 acres: Casper Weaver, since Keaseckers, Zook, late 
Geo. Fahnestcck, now John Heck. 

No. 12. 181 acres: William Brooks, now William Brooks, John 
Weaver and others. 



HISTORY OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY. 357 

No. 13. 184 acres: Samuel Wallace, now Joseph Best. 

No. 14. 153 acres: Late Christopher Gramlich, afterwards John 
Heck, now Weaver. 

No. 15. 205 acres: James McCurdey, late George and Adam Eich- 
elberger, then Miller, now Urich. 

No. 16. 237 acres : Isaac Hendrix.lale Henry Rupp and others, now 
George Rupp, and the heirs of Gorgas. 

No. 17. 213 acres: Robert Whitehill, now Dr. Joseph Grain -.id Jo- 
seph Saddler. 

No. 18. 311 acres : Philip Kimmel, afterwards Kutz, Heck, now Jo- 
nas Rupp, John and Geo* Bowman. 

No. 19. 267 acres : Andrew Kreutzer, now Joseph Saddler and Abra- 
ham Oyster. 

No. 20. 281 acres : David Moore, now George and Abraham Oyster. 

No. 21 and 22. 536 acres: Edmund Physick, now Samuel Bowman, 
Solomon Oyster and others. 

No. 23. 282 acres : Edmund Physick, afterwards Hershberger, Funk, 
Nichols, Bollinger, now Jacob G. Rupp, late Michael Ruby, Shopp and 
o'.hers. 

No. 24. 287 acres: Rev. Willi'am Thompson, now Daniel Scherbahn 
and others. 

No. 25. 150 acres : Alexander Young, late Robert Young, now Dr. 
R. Young. 

No. 26. 209 acres : Jonas Seely, afterwards Mannesmiih, Schnebele, 
now John, Samuel, Jacob and David Shopp. 

No. 27. 243 and No. 28. 180 acres : Jacob Miller, afterwards Long, 
and Kobers (Coovers) now Jacob Long, Reeser, Graaf, Shopp, iate 
John Bitner and others. 

Passing, it may be remarked, that only No. 4, 12 and part of No. 17, 
are now owned by any of the heirs or representatives of the original 
purchasers. 

The influx of immigrants into North or Kittatinny Valley 
increased fast after 1734. In 1748 the nuraberof taxables 
was about 800, and the population rising of 3000. As early 
as 1735, a road was laid out from Harris's Feriy, towards 
the Potomac river. Nov. 4 1735, the court at Lancaster, ap- 
pointed Randle Chambers, Jacob Peat, .James Silvers, Thos. 
Ea.stland, John Lawrence and Abrm. Endless, to lay out said 
road. These gentlemen made report Feb. 3, 1736, of their 
view of the road, which was opposed " by a considerable 
number of inhabitants on the west side of Susquehanna in 
those parts," and praying for a review. The court then or- 
dered that William Rennick, Richard Hough, James Arm- 
strong, Thos. Mayes, Sam. Montgomery and Benj. Cham- 
bers, view the road and to make such alterations in it, as to 
them may seem necessary for the public good, and report 
their proceeding to next court. 



J358 HISTORY OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY. 

They made the following report, May 4, 1736 : 

" That they had reviewed the easternmost part of the said 
road, and find it very crooked and hurtful to the inhabitants, 
&c., and therefore have altered the said road, and marked it 
in the manner following, to wit : From the said Ferry, near 
to a southwest course about two miles, thence a westerly 
course to James Silvers' then westward to John Hog's mea- 
dow, then westward to a fording place, on Letort's spring, a 
little to the northward of John Davison's thence west north- 
erly to the first marked road in a certain hollow, thence about 
southwest, a little to the south of Robert Duning's, to the 
former marked road, thence along the same to the Great 
Spring head, being as far as any review or alteration to them 
appeared necessary, which so altered as above said, and al- 
tered from the return to go by James Silver's house, was al- 
lowed to be recorded. 

In 1735, the North Valley, (now Cumberland and Frank- 
lin) was divided into two townships, Pennsborough & Hope- 
well. The dividing line between the townships is thus de- 
fined in the court records, " That a line running northerly 
from the Hills to the southward of Yellow Breeches (cross- 
ing in a direct line by the Great Spring) to Kightotinning 
mountain, by the division line; and that the easternmost town- 
ship be called Pennsborough, and the western Hopewell." 

Hopewell was divided in 1741, " by a line beginning 
at the North Hill, at Benj. Moor's, thence to widow Hew- 
res's and Samuel Jamison's, and on a straight line to the 
South Hill, and that the western division be called Antrim, 
and the eastern Hopewell." 

The following, exhibits the names of townships organized, 
and tax paid prior to the erection of Cumberland county, in 
the North Valley, from 1736 to 1749. 

Pennsborough paid in 1736, X13 17s. 6d. James Silvers, 
collector, Hopewell paid 5/. 2s. Pennsboro' paid in 1737, 
13/. 9s. 9d. E. part of Hopewell paid 3/. 2s. W. part of 
Hopewell paid 21. 19s. Pennsboro' paid in 1838, 20/, 14s. 
E. part of Hopewell paid 10/. 3d. W. p. of Hopewell paid 
7/. 7s. 9d. Pennsboro' paid in 1739, 23/. 16s. 8d. ; William 
Tremble, collector. S. p. of Hopewell paid 11/. 8s. Id. ; Ja- 
cob Snebly, collector. N. p. of Hopewell paid 6/. lis. Qti\. ; 
Abraham Endless, collector. W. p. of Pennsboro' paid 11/. 
4s. 7d. ; Robert Dennin, collector. E. p. of Pennsboro' paid 



HISTORV Ui CJMBERLAND COUNTY. 359 

14/. 18s. 7d. ; John Walt, collector. East Hopewell paid 4/. 
2d. ; James Laughlin, collector. West Hopewell paid 4/. 
19s. 3d. ; Philip Davis, collector. Pennsboro' paid in 1741, 
17/. 15s. lOd. ; Robert Redock, collector. Hopewell paid 
3/. 8s. 9d. ; John Montgomery, collector. Antrim paid 9/. 3s. 
2d.; Robert Hamilton, collector. W, End of Pennsboro' p. 
in 1742, 11. 19s. 2d. ; William Weakly, collector. E. End of 
Pennsboro' p. 16/. 7s. 8d. ; John Swansey, collector. Hope- 
well p. 5/. lis. 4d. ; David Herren, collector. Antrim p. 8/. 
18s. 2d.; Robert Cronckleton, collector. E. end of Penns- 
boro' p. in 1743, 9/. 6d. ; John Sempel, collector. W. end of 
Pennsboro' p. 10/. 7s. 3d.; Robert Miller, collector. Hope- 
well p. 6/. 16s. ] Id. ; Henry Hallam, collector. Antrim paid 
19/. 10s. 7d. ; David Scott, collector. W. end of Pennsboro' 
p. 22/. 4s.; John Mitchell, collector. E. end of Pennsboro' 
p. 17/. 12s. 7d. ; Thomas Fisher, collector. Hopewell p. 10 . 
I6s. 2d-; Thomas Montgomery, collector. Antrim p. 22/. 4s. 
7d.; John McClelland, collector. West Pennsboro' paid in 

1745, 23/. Is. lid. ; James Chambers, collector. East Penns- 
boro' p. 13/. 4s. ; John McCrackin, collector. Hopewell p. 
12/. 10s. 4d. ; William Thompson, collector. Antrim p. 16/. 
14s. 8d.; Williaai Nugent, collector. E. Pennsboro' paid in 

1746, 10/. 5s. ; John Rankin, collector. W. Pennsboro' p. 
13/. 4s, 8d.; James McFarlin, collector. Hopewell p. 9/. 
17s. 9d.; John Erwin, collector. Antrim p. 14/. 13s. 8d.; 
John Linsey, collector. E. Pennsboro' p. in 1747, 10/. 12s. ; 
Joseph Green, collector. W. Pennsboro' p. 13/. 18s. 6d; ; Pat- 
rick Davis, collector. Hopewell p. 12/. 7s. 7d.; John Cur- 
rey, collector. Antrim p. 11/. Is. 2d.; Thomas Barnet, col- 
lector. E. Pennsboro' p. in 1748, 12/. 2s.; Christopher Hus- 
ton, collector. W. Pennsboro' p. 14/. 14s. 6d. ; William Dun- 
bar, collector. Hopewell p. 13?. 13s. 6d.; James Walker, 
collector. Antrim p. 11. 19s. 4d. ; Charles McGill, collector. 
E. Pennsboro' p. in 1749, 23/. 16s. 6d.; Tobias Hendricks, 
collector. W. Pennsboro' p. 28/. 8s. 9d. ; Archibald McAl- 
lister, collector. Hopewell p. 43/. 3s. 9d.; John Kirkpatrick, 
collector. Antrim p. 21/. 18s. 8d. ; John Mushart, collector. 

Taxables of East Pennsboro in 1750. — Tobias Hendricks, 
widow Jane Woods, Sam'l Calhoun, Thomas Kenny, Thos. 
Spray, James Shannon, James Dickey, John Bigham, Sam'l 
Chambers, James Irwin, Wm. Barrehill, Wm. Noble, Wm. 



360 



HISTORY OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY. 



Crawford, Wm. McChesney, Richard Fulton, John McClel- 
lan, Wm. Rose, Adam Colhoun, VV^m. Shannon, John Sem- 
ple, Charles West, Christopher Hewston, Walker Buchanan, 
David Ree»l, James Armstrong, Hugh Wharton, Edward 
Eliot, Francis McGuire, Wm. Find ley, Josias McMeans, 
Hugh Mahool, Robert Carrithers, Wm. Ross, Henry Quigly, 
Wm. Morton, John Armstrong, John Buchanan, Nathrniel 
Nelson, John Nailer, Andrew Armstrong, Thomas McCor- 
mick, John Dickey, John McCracken, widow Clark, widow 
McMeans, Robert Eliot, Robert Eliot, jr., James Carrithers, 
Wm. Gray, Alexander Lamferty, John Willey, Robert Dun- 
ing, Joseph Junkin, Wm. Walker, Alexander Armstrong, 
Moses Star, James Crawfsrd, Roger Cook, Hugh Cook, Wm. 
Miller, John McCorraick, James Silvers, John Stevenson, 
James Coleman, Daviil Waason, John Hunter, Wra. Doug- 
las, John Mitchel, Andrew Milekin, John Milekin, Patrick 
Holmes, James Finley, Peter Shaver,* John Erwin, Wm. 
Carrithers, widow Quilgy, Sam'l Martin, Wra. Hamilton, 
Robert Samuels, John VV augh, Thos. Rankin, Richard Ran- 
kin, John Clendeniij, Jas. Waugh, widow Roberts, Thomas 
Henderson, Wm. Hamilton, VVm. Marshal, Wm. Miller, 
Wilson Thomas, Alexander Crocket, widow Branan, Thos. 
Calvert, Wm. Griffiith, Robert Bell, Wm. Orr, James Mc- 
Connel, John Bowan, Robert McKinley, Sam'l P^isher, Titus 
Hollinger, Samuel McCormick, Rowland Chambers, Robert 
Kelton, Isaac Rutlidge, Ftowland McDonald, Walter Grego- 
ry, widow iftewart, James McTeer, Peter Leester, Peter 
Title, Joseph Willie, Anthony Mc< ue, James Beaty, Wm. 
CroL-ket, Andrew Miller, Robeit Roseborough, Joseph Green, 
James Douglas, widow Steel, widow McKee, and Joseph 
Reynolds, jr. 

Freemen. — Wm. Hogg, Geo. Croghan, Esq., Jonathan 
Hogg, Sam'l Huston, John Gilkeson, Robert Airs, Abraham 
Hendricks, Archibald Armstrong, Jos. Ferret, Clime Moral, 
Daniel Campbell, Wm. McDonald, Matthew Lindham, J. 
Armstrong, Cornelius Brown, Hugh Shannon, Robert Wal- 
ker, Nath'l Wilson, Matthew Brown, [Two silver-smiths at 
Wm. MeChesneys,] John Adams, David Kenworthy, James 

* Peier Shaver, was a trader among the Indians. In the fall of 1744, 
Gov Thomas employed him to carry letters to the Shawanese Indians 
on the Ohio, inviting ihem to come to Philadelphia. — Votes Assem. iv. 
p. 9. 



HISTORY OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY. 361 

Gaily, Wm. McTeer, Edward Ward, Arthur Erwin, James 
Clark, William Cranula. 

West Pennshorough 1751. — William Queery, Wra. La- 
ment, Archibald McAllister, Wm. Carithers, John Davison, 
Allen Leeper, Neal McFaul, John McClure, (the less,) Wm. 
Logan, John Atchison, Thos. McCoy, Charles Gillgore, An- 
drew Giffin, Wm. Dunbar, Wm. Harkness, Wm. Patton, 
Samuel McCIure, Rob. Walker, James Kirkpatrick, John 
Swansy, Arthur Clark, Adam Hays, Jas. McMeans, John 
Deniston, John Mclntire, James McFarland, Wm. Laughlin, 
Robt. Brevard, Robt. M'Queston, Jas. Peebles, John M'Clure, 
(mountain,) Alex. McClure, John Langley, John Gordon, 
Wm. Livingston, Robt. Guthrie, Wm. Anderson, John Glass, 
Jon. Logan, Will. Duglass, Alex. Erwin, Alex. Logan, Wm. 
Tviwnsley, Wm. Parker, Margaret Parker, And. Forbush, 
John Morrison, David Kollogh, Geo. Brown, Francis Cun- 
ningham, Alex. Robb, Anthony Gillgore, Jacob Peebles, Sam- 
uel Wilson, Allen Scroggs, David Kenedy, Mary Dunning, 
Wm. Carithers, John Carithers, John Chestnut. Thos Patton, 
And. Ralston, John McCIung, Ezekiel Dunning, James Lea, 
John Lusk, Alexander McBride, Jas. McNaught, Wm. Black- 
stock, Jas. Crutchlow, \^ m. Dunlap, Thos. Evans, Steven 
Cesna, Jas. Weakly, David Hunter, Josh. Cornelius, Alex. 
VVeyly, Lewis Hutton, Jas. Warnock, David Dunbar, David 
Miller, John \^ ilson, Josh. Thomson, Josh. Dempsay, Sam- 
uel Lindsay, Paul Piercy, Owen McCooI, Pat. Robeson, 
Thos. Parker. — Freeman: Samuel Wilson, Jas. McMunagle, 
David McCurdy, Pat. Reynolds, And. McAdams, John Mc- 
Curdy. 

Middleton, 17ol. — William Trent, Thomas Wilson, Jonn 
Elder, John Chambers, Robert McNutt, James Long, John 
Mahafy, James Reed, John Moor, John Craighead, James 
Dunlop, Patrick Hawson, Walter Denny, Jas. Gillgore, Pat- 
rick Davison, Thomas Elder, Henry Dinsmore, John Mitch- 
el, Samuel Lamb, James Williams, James Matthews, Alex. 
Sanderson, James Henderson, Matthew Miller, John Davis, 
W^m. Graham, Wm. Campbell, Wm. Parkeson, Francis Mc 
Nichley, John McKnaught, John Calhoun, Wm. Peterson, 
John Robb, Robert Graham, Samuel McLucass, Daniel Will- 
iams, George Sanderson, Alexander Sanderson, Joseph Clark, 
John McClure, Jonathan Holmes, James Chambers, Thomas 
Armstrong, Wm. Waddel, James McConnell, Richard Nich- 

31 



362 HISTORY OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY. 

olson, John Neely, John McGw?^,'' John Stuart, Archibald 
Kenedy, John Jordan, Wm. Jordan, George Templeton, Jas. 
Stuart, Richard Venable, Wid. Wilson, David Dreanan, 
John Dinsmore, Samuel Gauy, Wm. Davison, Samuel Big- 
ger, Thos. Gibson, John Brown, John McKinley, Robt. 
Campbel, John Kinkead. Samuel Wilson, Robt. Patterson, 
John Reed, Robt. Reed, Wm. Reed, James Reed, Wm. Arm- 
strong, James Young, Robert Miller, Wm. Gillachan, Josh. 
Davies, Wm. Fleming, John Gilbreath, Richard Coulter, 
Richard Kilpatrick, Andrew Gregg, Robert Thomson, John 
Dicky, Jas. Brannan, John McClure, John Buyers, Arthur 
Foster, Hermanns Alricks, John Armstrong, John Smith, 
Wm. Buchanan, Wm. Blyth, John McAllister, Wm. Mont- 
gomery, John Patterson, Robt. Kilpatrick, Archibald Mc- 
Curdy, Wra. Whiteside, John Woodle, Wm. Dilhvood, Wm. 
Huston, Thomas Lockward, Thomas Henderson, Jos. Thorn- 
ton, James Dunning, Wm. Moor, Geo. Davison, Alex. Pat- 
terson, John McBride, Robt. Robb, Dennis Swansy, Daniel 
Lorrance, Jon. Hogg, Oliver Wallace, John Bell, Arthur 
Buchanan, Robert Guthrie, Berry Cackel, Cornelius McAd- 
ams, Andrew Mclntire, Alex. Roddy, Josh Price, Hugh 
Laird, Wm. Ferguson, Widow Duglas, Abraham Sanford, 
Moses Moor, Joseph Gaylie, Charles Mahaufy, Wm. Kerr, 
Hugh Creanor, William Guilford, Wm. Stuart, Wm. Chad- 
wick. 

Freemen in Middleton and Carlisle. — Andrew Holmes, 
Jon. Kearney, Francis Hamilton, Jon. Donnel, Wm. Wilson, 
Pat. Loag, Rob. Patterson, Wm. Kinaird, Geo. Crisp, Hugh 
Laird, Wm. Braidy, Jas. Tait, Pat. Kearney, Arthur Fos- 
ter, Jas. Pollock, Thos. Elmore, Robt. Mauhiny, Jonathan 
Hains, William Rainiston, Jas. Gambel, John Woods, David 
Hains, Henry Hains. 

Hopewell Township, 1751. — -"Robert Gibson, David Her- 
on, Moses Donald, Thomas Donald, Francis Ignue, Daniel 
M'Donald, John Eliott, Alexander M'Clintock, James M'- 
Farland, Joshua M'Clintock, Hugh Terrance, Hugh Thom- 
son, Josh. Thomson, Josh. Thomson, jr., Robert McDowell, 
James McDowell, Robert Rusk, John Scrogs, William Wal- 
ker, William Corhahan, Thomas Gawlt, James Hamilton, 
John Laughlen, Josh. Gaii, Samuel Williamson, Samuel 
Smith, David Kidd, John Hodge, Robt. McCombs, Thomas 
Micky, John Wray, Richard Nicholson, Andrew McHvain, 



HISTORY OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY. 363 

George Hamilton, John Thomson, Wm. Gambel, Samuel 
Montgomery, Robert Simson, John Brown, Allen Nisbit, 
John Nesbit, jr., John Nesbit, sen., James Wallace, And. 
Peeble, John Anderson, Patrick Hannah, John Tremble, 
Moses Stuart, William Reigny, John Moorhead, James Pol- 
lock, Samuel Stuart, Robert Robinson, David Newell, James 
M'Cormick, Charles Murray, Joseph Boggs, John Lysee,' 
Andrew Leckey, John Montgomery, John Beaty, James 
Walker, William Smyley, James Chambers, Robert Meek, 
Dr. Wm. M'Gofreck, James Jack, James Quigly, Robert 
Simonton, John M'Cune, Charles Cumins, Samuel Wier, John 
M'Cune, jr., Josh. Martin, James Carrahan, Allen Kollogh, 
James Young, Francis Newell, John Quigly, Robert Stuart, 
Samuel Montgomery, Daniel Mickey, Audrew Jack, Robert 
Mickey, Hugh Braidy, Robert Chambers, William Thomson, 
Edward Leasy, Alexander Scrogg, John Jack, James Laugh- 
lin, John Lau'ghlin, jr., Robert Dinney, David Simrel, Sam- 
uel Walker, Abraham Walker, James Paxton, James Uxley, 
Samuel Cellar, W. M'Clean, James Culberlson, James M'- 
Kessan, John Miller, Daniel O'Cain, John Edmonson, Isaac 
Miller, David M'Gaw, John Reynolds, Francis Gamble, 
William Anderson, Thomas Edmonson, James Diinlop, John 
Reynold, jr., William Dunlop, Widow Piper, George Cum- 
ins, Thomas Finley, Alexander Fairbairn, John Mason, Jas. 
Dysert, William Gibson, Horace Brattan, John Carothers, 
Patrick Mullan, James Blair, Peter Walker, John Steven- 
son, John Aiger, John Ignue. Freemen: John Hanch, Josh. 
Edmonson, John Callwell, John Richison, skinner, P. Miller. 



CHAPTER XXIV. 

CUMBERLAND COUNTY REDUCED, ETC. 

Present boundary of Cumberland; population; Geology of the county; 
Different kinds of land, cleared, uncleared, fit for cultivation, &c.; 
General statistics ; Synopsis of the census of 1840 ; Streams, natu- 
ral curiosities, &c.; Public improvements ot various kinds ; Pack 
horses, and western carriers ; their indignation at the first wagoners; 
Promiscuous notices. 

The ample limits of this county, when first established, 
comprising all of the province west of the Susquehanna, ex- 
cept the territory of York, then embracing Adams, have 
since been much reduced, by taking the following counties 
therefrom, viz : Bedford, March 9th, 1771 ; Northumberland, 
formed of parts of Lancaster, Cumberland, Berks, North- 
ampton, and Bedford, erected March 21, 1772 ; Franklin, 
September 9, 1784 ; Mifflin, September 19, 1789 ; and Per- 
ry, March 22, 1820 — and is now bounded on the north by 
Perry county, on the east by the Susquehanna river, sepa- 
rating it from Dauphin ; south by York and Adams counties; 
and on the west by Franklin county. Length thirty-four 
miles, breadth sixteen ; area, five hundred and forty-five 
square miles. Population in 1790, 18,243 ; in 1800, 25,- 
386 ; in 1810, 26,757 ; in 1820 (Perry be separated) 23,- 
606 ; in 1830, 29,226 ; in 1840, 30,953 ; at present (1845) 
about 33,000. Aggregate amount of property taxable was 
$9,092,674,00, 

The geological feature of this county is not so diversified 
as that of Dauphin. " The ridges of the south mountain 
are almost wholly composed of hard white sand stone, and 
have a meagre rocky soil, mostly covered with timber, which 
yields fuel for the furnaces and foiges in that region. At 
Fine Grove furnace, on Mountain creek, is a detached bed 
of limestone, of limited extent, surrounded by the mountain 
sandstone ; and connected with a deposit? of bro\vp pr^uillfi* 



HISTORY OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY'. 365 

ceous and hematite iron ore, which is productive and has 
been worked for many years. 

"At the northern base of the south mountain commences 
the great limestone formation of the Kittatinny Valley, 
which extends northward until it meets the next dark forma- 
tion of slate, situate between the limestone and Kittatinny 
mountain. 

" Along the northern side of the South mountain, near 
the contact of the white sand stone with the limestone, iron 
ore is abundant, and is extensively mined for the supply of 
furnaces. Further north, and wholly within the limestone 
formation, pipe ore and other varieties of excellent quality 
may be obtained in many places. 

"The rocks of the Kittatinny mountain are course, grey 
and reddish sandstones, next in order above the slate, and 
are not particularly valuable either for their utility or 
their mineral contents. In the neighborhood of Lisburn, or 
Yellow Breeches creek, the middle secondary red shales and 
sand stones pass across from York county, overlapping the 
limestone to a limited extent. Large beds of the calcareous 
conglomerate belonging to the upper portion of this forma- 
tion are visible along the steep banks of the creek ; but the 
material is generally too silicious to be worked and polished 
as the Potomac marble, with which it is identified in other 
respects. Some ridges and dikes of trap rock are also appa- 
rent in the same neighborhood, connected with the great 
trappean range in the north of York county. A remarkabl* 
trap dike issues from the South mountain near Carlisle Iron 
works, and extends norhtward through the limestone and 
slate, forming an abrupt stoney ridge quite across the county 
to the Blue mountain, east of Sterrett's Gap. This dike is 
believed to pass through the Blue mountain, being probably 
the same which is seen near the Susquehanna in Perry coun- 
ty, and again east of the river in Lykens Valley above Mil- 
lersburg in Dauphin county." 

Iron ore is found in various parts of the county. In Al- 
len township, on the farm of VVillam R, Gorgas, Esq., is an 
excellent quality, and supplies in part, D. R. Porter's fur- 
nace at Harrisburg. Rising of seven thousand tons have 
already been taken out here. During 1845, upwards of 
three thousand tons were mined. 

31* 



366 HISTORY OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY. 

The annexed table, compiled from the Fourth Annual 
Report of Pennsylvania State Geologist, will be found con- 
venient for reference: 



TJ 









5" S" 



g^ 3.2. -»^^ pOg § - vT S^ 

^t^r'^j^W^ x'g3 ^S"_ o5 1= P^ to — ~ 

J5 hrjOr^:^^ f^^ 3 2 g3 e n en I I I o I o< o o o 

a3H^«)^c^a!„ 0D|<}| lOD^Iccnco F 

SS -S 3 3 ^§ <^:^o CO I o I I ^ ? I CO CP o 

{>B r!o^ ^^ ^^ "> '^S, cn> I ' I I cs I 6::) 4^ ? to 



OS GO I I I o I I 00 >;^ o 

4i^ 



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CO '3 



Cn 00 



2- tJ-f^ <;00 GO 0«3*>. 

3-? <iobl||CO[|Ci«0 

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rt) 



50,^0 3 Ox M^3^ti. 



►ti. (W I 1^ I en I I o to o 



Oi 00 

O >— 00 <j to 

OJ o I I I I-* I 1000 



C 



5' CO to I I I o I I o CO o 

2' oi ET 00 

C CDO 3pO rfi.tOC0t_^ 

OQ toco||2<»||bbic» 

to 1-^ I I C" o I loop 

'oP I I I ^ I I >'?^P' r^ 

rf^ o» I I I c;< I I to o GO 



r 



HISTORY OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY. 367 

This county lying principally within Cumberland, or Kit- 
tatinny valley, is comparatively level, except along the north, 
northwest and southwest, and in those portions where slate 
or shale abounds. Much of it is limestone; the land is fer- 
tile, and in many parts well cultivated. The limestone 
abounds in the following townships, viz: Allen, East Penns- 
boro, Hampden, Monroe, Silver-spring, North Middleton, 
South Middleton, &c. &c. According to the agricultural 
statistics of 1838, there were 74,300 acres of cleared lime- 
stone land, 35,430 uncleared limestone, 38,060 slate land 
cleared, 12,950 slate land unchared, 23,940 gravel land 
cleared, 5,560 gravel land uncleared, 12,205 sand land un- 
cleared, 80,715 mountain or rockland, 3,6 10 known to con- 
tain iron ore. The whole quantity of cleared land of all 
kinds is 284,100 acres, uncleared land, but fit for cultivation, 
is 48,400; uncleared land not fit ior cultivation, is 48,600 
acres. The average value of cleared land was in 1^38, $33 
per acre; the average value of wood land $27; the average 
value of wood land unfit for cultivation $8. The whole 
value of all the cleared land $4,833,500 ; of all the un- 
cleared land $1,336,000; the whole number of farms one 
thousand four hundred and seventy-four ; the average size 
of one hundred and ten acres each; the average yield of 
wheat per acre, thirteen bushels; of rye, ten; of oais, twen- 
ty-two; of barley, twenty-one; of corn, nineteen; though on 
some farms from fifty to sixty bushels is considered a good or 
fair yield; potatoes, sixty; though from two hundred to two 
hundred and fifty bushels have been raised in some favorable 
seasons; turnips, fifty-five ; buckwheat, twelve; hemp, dress- 
ed in pounds, eighty ; flax, ninety pounds. The whole num- 
ber of stone farm houses, two hundred and ninety-eio-ht ; 
brick farm houses, one hundred and forty-four ; wooden farm 
houses, nine hundred and ninety seven ; tenant houses on 
farms, not farm houses, eight hundred and twelve; the whole 
number of stone barns two hundred and ninety-two; seventy 
one brick barns; wooden barns, one thousand one hundred 
and eleven; and many of them are thatched with straw; 
the whole number of acres of wheat the crop of 1838, 
twenty-two thousand nine hundred and fifty ; of rye, eigh- 
teen thousand seven hundred and sixty acres ; of oats, four- 
teen thousand three hundred acres; five hundred and eighty 
acres of barley ; of corn, nine thousand seven hundred 



068 HISTORY OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY. 

acres; twenty-one thousand nine hundred and twenty acres 
of clover ; four thousand one hundred and sixty acres of 
timothy ; natural meadow^, two thousand one hundred and 
seventy acres; one thousand eight hundred and ten acres of 
potatoes; one hundred and ten acres of turnips; seven hun- 
dred and sixty acres of buck wheal ; fifteen acres of hemp ; 
one hundred and ten acres of flax. 

According to the census of 1840, there were, in this coun- 
ty, six furnaces, which produced two thousand eight hundred 
and thirty tons of cast iron ; five forges and rolling mills, 
which produced two thousand one hundred and fifty tons of 
bar iron ; the furnaces and forges consumed ten thousand six 
hundred tons of fuel; employed four hundred hands, includ- 
ing mining operations; capital invested $110,000. The 
value of other metals produced ^i<l,750 ; employed twenty- 
two hands. The value of stone produced $2,000 ; gave 
employment to eight men ; capital $500. 

Live stock. — Horses and mules, nine thousand two hun- 
dred and forty seven ; twenty-four thousand two hundred 
and four neat cattle; twenty-three thousand nine hundred 
and thirty sheep; forty-seven thousand two hundred and 
thirty-five swine; poultry of all kinds, estimated value, 
$12,671. 

Cereal grains; five hundred, sixty-seven thousand, six 
hundred and fifty-four bushels of wheat; eleven thousand, 
one hundred and four bushels of barley; six hundred and 
hfty-four thousand, four hundred and seventy-seven bushels 
, of oats; two hundred and forty-seven thousand, two hun- 
dred and thirty-nine bushels of rye ; thirteen thousand, seven 
hundred and seventy-two bushels of buckwheat ; six hun- 
dred forty-five thousand and fifty-six bushels of Indian corn. 
Various other productions — forty-seven thousand, one hun- 
dred and thirty-three pounds of wool ; four thousand, eight 
hundred and twelve pounds of hops ; six hundred and eighty 
five pounds of bees wax ; one hundred and twenty-one thou- 
sand, six hundred and forty-one bushels of potatoes ; twen- 
ty-four thousand, four hundred and twenty-three tons of hay; 
eleven and three-fourths tons of hemp; fourteen thousand, 
eight hundred and forty-nine cords of wood sold ; besides 
that used for domestic and culinary purposes by those who 
sold wood ; value of the products of the dairy, estimated at 
^100,753 ; value of the products of the orchard $18,860 ; 



HISTORY OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY. 



371 



gallons of wine made 397 ; value of home made or family 
goods $24,666; pounds of reeled silk, three; $15 value of 
the same; five persons employed ; capital invested $4505. 
Value of manufactured $2,450; nine persons employed; 
capital invested $1,150. Hats, caps, bonnets, &c.— Value 
of hats and caps manufactured $6,800; employed twenty- 
six persons; capital invested $4,550. Tanneries, thirty-one 
tanned twelve thousand, nine hundred and seventy sides of 
sole leather; ten thousand seven hundred and seventy-seven 
of upper; employed sixty-four men; capital $89,175. All 
other manufactories of leather, saddleries, &c., ninety-six; 
value of manufactured articles $38,635; capital invested 
$16,240; Soap and candles, two hundred and thirty thou- 
sand, two hundred and eighteen pounds of the former, and 
forty-five thousand and sixty pounds of the latter. 

Distilleries, twenty-eight, which produced two hundred 
and fifty-two thousand, three hundred and five gallons of 
"alcoholic beverage !!" three breweries, produced twelve 
thousand gallons of beer; employed forty-three men; cnpi" 
tal invested $45,400 ; one pottery, value of manufactured ar- 
ticles $400 ; employed two men, capital $200. Value of 
produce of market gardens $4,145 ; value of produce of 
nurseries and florists $545 ; six men employed ; capital in- 
vested $7,045; eleven commission houses; capital $22,500. 

Retail dry goods, grocery and other stores, one hundred 
and twelve; capital invested $318,146; lumber yards, thir- 
teen; capital invested $42,350; one hundred and forty-four 
men employed. Internal transportation, sixteen men em- 
ployed in; capital invested $17,775; value of lumber produ- 
ced $12,760. Value of machinery manufactured $8,300 ; 
twenty-senen hands employed. Number of small arras made, 
sixty-six ; five men employed. Various metals, value of their 
manufacture $21,550 ; fifty men employed. Value of bricks 
and lime manufactured $29,218 ; eighty three men employed. 
Fulling mills, twelve ; nine woolen manufactories; value of 
manufactured goods $26,800; sixty-one persons employed: 
capital invested $7,700; one cotton factory; two persons 
employed. One paper manufactory ; value of produce $4,- 
000; capital invested $3000. Five printing offices; two 
book binderies; six weekly newspapers; fourteen men em- 
ployed ; capital invested $6,120. 

Carriages and wagons manufactured, value of $32,760 ; 



872 HISTORY or CUMBERLAND COUNTY. 

one hundred and twenty four men employed; capital invest- 
ed !?21,070. Fifty-four flouring mills, manufactured seven- 
ty-one thousand, six hundred and filty-two barrels; eight 
grist mills; sixty-three saw mills; one oil mill, value of man- 
ufactures $60,831 ; employed, one hundred and thirty-four 
men, capital invested S>140,o23. Value of furniture manu- 
factured $22,850, fifty-seven men employed ; capital invested 
$12,8o0. Brick and stone houses built, thirty-three; wood- 
en houses built, thirty-four; two hundred and seven men em- 
ployed ; value of constructing or building $58,270. Value 
of all other manufactures not enumerated $40,465 ; capital 
invested $12,870. Total capital invested in manufactures 
«390,601. 






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HISTORY OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY. 373 

Streams in Cumberland county. — Besides the Suequehan- 
na on the east, which is the recipient of all the streams that 
drain this county, the Conedogwinet is the main creek in the 
county. It rises in Horse valley, near Jordan's Knob in 
Franklin county, and flows thence, at an average distance of 
five mdes, south of the Blue mountain, through this county: 
passing about a mile north of Newville, nearly two miles 
north of Carlisle, and falls in the Susquehanna at Fairview, 
about two miles and a half above the Harrisburg bridge, 
having a comparative course of nearly sixty miles ; but as its 
course is very serpentine, its entire course may not fall short 
of eighty miles, following the meanders of the stream. In 
its course through the county, it receives a number of small 
streams, such as Means run, in the western end of the coun- 
ty ; Big Spring, Letort creek, Hoges run. Silvers' Spring, 
and others. 

Means run rises at the foot of the South mountain, flows 
north along the boundary line between Franklin and Cum- 
berland counties, through Shippensburg ; after flowing a 
distance of eight or nine miles falls into the Conedogwinet 
creek. Big Spring rises about a mile northeast of Stoughs- 
town, passing by l>lewville, falls into the Conedogwinet 
creek. Letort creek rises in South Middleton township, 
from a large fountain as its source, gives motions to several 
mills, passes through the borough of Carlisle, and empties 
into the Conedogwinet three miles north east of Carlisle. — 
Hoges run rises near Hogestown, and empties into Conedog- 
winet. Silvers' spring* rises principally from a large fountain 
on the plantation of George Rupp ; flows north about one 
mile, and falls into the Conedogwinet. It affords ample wa- 
ter power in its course to two flouring mills. 

The Yellow Breeches is the next considerable stream, it 
rises on the north side of the South mountain. Its course is 
eastward, receiving Mountain creek from the south and sev- 
eral small streams, such as Boiling spring, Switzers run. Ce- 
dar run, and other smaller tributaries. It forms the south 
boundary of the county for a distance of ten or eleven miles. 
It affords water power to some forty flouring, giist and saw 

*This spring derives its name from James Silvers who settled near, 
or on i", prior to 1733. In 174-4 Aug. 15 Mr. Silvers obtained a war- 
rant for a large tract of land here. — Compiler. 

32 



374 



HISTORY OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY. 



mills. It falls into the Susquehanna at New Cumberland 
about three miles below the Harrisburg bridge. 

Mountain creek, the principal tributary of the Yellow 
Breeches, rises on the borders of Adams county, flowing 
along and winding round the South mountain, after a course 
of ten or twelve miles, falls into its recipient. JBoiling Spring, 
rises near the eastern boundary of South Middleton town- 
ship, contiguous to Ege's iron works, and after running a 
short distance, empties into Yellow Breeches creek. 

Cedar Spring rises in Allen township on the plantation of 
Jacob Markel, flowing eastward, affording power to a large 
flouring mill, saw mill and clover mill, falls into the Yellow 
Breeches immediately below Milltown. 

The streams now noticed and other smaller ones, afford 
water power to rising fifty flouring mills, twelve or fifteen 
grist mills, between sixty and seventy saw mills, several oil 
mills, fulling mills, clover mills, woollen and other factories. 

Natural curiosities. — Among the natural curiosities of this 
county may be appropriately classed a well known cave on 
the banks of the Conedogwinet, about a mile and a half north 
of Carlisle. The entrance to it is a semi-circular archway, 
about eight feet high, in a limestone cliff of about twenty 
feet perpendicular elevation. There is such perfect symme- 
try displayed in the arch to this subterraneous cavern, as to 
strongly incline the visitor to the belief that art must have 
given it the finish ; and such an opinion receives some sup- 
port from the fact that the surface of the interior has, at 
some time, received a dressing, or smoothing. From the 
vaulted passage, or ante-chamber which is hrst entered, there 
is a nearly straight passage of about two hundred and sev- 
enty feet to a point where it branches into three directions. 
The passage is high enough to admit the visiter erect, till 
he reaches the tri-furcation. The passage on the right is 
broad and low, and not easy of access, owing to the great 
humidity of the stones. It leads to a chamber as large as 
the first, which bears the singular name of his satanic ma- 
jesty, " The Devil's Dining Room." The centre passage 
from the ante-chamber is very narrow and tortuous, some- 
what similar to a winding- stair, and cannot be entered more 
than about thirty feet, where it terminates in a perpendicu- 
lar excavation ; the height of which, has not, as I know, 
yet been measured. 



HISTORY OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY. 375 

The left hand passage, at a distance of three or four feet, 
turns, at a sudden to the right, and measures in length about 
ninety feet, with a sufficient opening to permit a small lad to 
creep along it, but it becomes thenceforth too strait for fur- 
ther progress. About seven feet from the entrance of this 
gallery are several small pools — Those fond of poetical sem- 
blances, say, there are " seven springs." Those pools are 
formed by the drippings of the roof, which huxe been mis- 
taken by the credulous for springs. 

The Carlisle Sulphur Springs, of some celebrity, are three 
miles north of the borough in North Middleton township. — 
It is a place of some considerable resort in the summer 
season. 

Public Imp7'ove7nents. — The Cumberland Valley Railroad 
passes through the centre of a finely cultivated part of the 
county. It was required by the charter of the company, in- 
corporated in 1834, that it should pass by way of Carlisle 
and Shippensburg. It not only passes through these towns, 
the points named, but hard by Shiremanstown, through the 
borough of Mechanicsburg ; one half mile south of Newville. 
The whole length of the road from the borough of Harris- 
burg is fifty-one miles. It was estimated that this road, 
when completed would yield a handsome per centage on the 
capital stock invested. The local trade of Cumberland val- 
ley was estimated, to make an aggregate of carriage, of fif- 
ty-one thousand nine hundred and fifty tons, annually. We 
have not the data to determine, whether these anticipations 
were fully realized. The aggregate receipts were estimated 
at 1-204,647.00 annually. The road has now been in opera- 
tion for eight or nine years; and the stockholders have met 
with some reverses ; for in December 1844, that noble su- 
perstructure across the Susquehanna, was destroyed by fire. 
One man lost his life at the time. 

Turnpikes. — The turnpike road from Harrisburg to Cham- 
bersburg, made by an incorporated company, was began in 
1816; and crosses the county southwest by way of Hogues- 
ton, Kingston, Middlesex, CarHsle, and Shippensburg, and 
was, before the completion of the rail road, much travelled. 

The Hanover and Carlisle turnpike road, commenced in 
1812, runs from the borough of Carlisle southeast by way 



376 



HISTORY OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY. 



of Petersburg, in Adams county, to Hanover, thence to Bal- 
timore. The Harrisburg and York turnpike road, passes 
along the west side of the Susquehanna. These roads and 
all the highways, are usually kept in good order, by means 
of which, and the numerous bridges in the county every 
portion is easily accessible by wagons, or vehicles tor plea- 
sure. 

The modes of transporting or conveying produce and 
other articles of commerce, have been, like the highways, 
thorough fares, or public roads, much improved within the 
memory of many now living, west of the Susquehanna. Six- 
ty or seventy years ago five hundred pack horses had been 
at one time in Carlisle, going thence to Shippensburg, Fort 
Loudon, and further westward, loaded with merchandise, 
also salt, iron, &c. The pack-horses used to carry bars of 
iron on their backs, crooked over and around their bodies — 
barrels or cags were hung on each side of these. 

Colonel Snyder of Chambersburg, in a conversation with 
the writer (August 1845) said, that he cleared many a day 
from six to eight dollars in crooking, or bending iron, and 
shoeing horses for western carriers, at the time he was car- 
rying on a blacksmith shop, in the town of Chambersburg. 

The pack horses were generally led in divisions of twelve 
or fifteen horses, carrying about two. hundred weight each, 
all going single file, and being managed by two men, one 
going before as the leader, and the other at the tail, to see 
after the safety of the packs. Where the bridle road passed 
along declivities or over hills, the path was, in some places, 
washed out so deep that the packs or burdens came in con- 
tact with the ground, or other impeding obstacles, and were 
frequently displaced. However, as the carriers usually tra- 
velled in companies, the packs were soon adjusted, and no 
great delay occasioned. 

The pack horses were generally furnished with bells, 
which were kept from ringing during the day drive, but 
were let loose at night, when the horses were set free and 
permitted to feed and browse. The bells were intended as 
guides to direct their whereabouts in the morning. When 
wagons were first introduced, the carriers considered that 
mode of " transportation," an invasion of their rights — their 
indignation was more excited and they manifested greater 



HISTORY OF DAUPHIK COUNTY. 377 

rancor, than did the regular teamsters when the line of sin- 
gle teams was started some thirty years ago. 



CHAPTER XXV. 

THE WHITES INTRUDE UPON INDIAN, OR UNPURCHASED 

LANDS, &C. 

Icflux of immigrants increased ; Irish and some few Germans intrude 
upon Indian lands north of the Kittatinny mountain, &c.; Indians 
become irritated and threatened to do themselres justice ; Confer- 
ence held in Peunsborough touching the Indians' complaints ; Rich- 
ard Peters and others proceed to remove the intruders; Several 
cabins burnt on Juniata river, Shearman's creek; Peters and others 
proceed to Shippensburg, thence to Tuscarora Path, and burn 
several cabins; Proceed to Big Cove, «&c. ; Brief sketch of early- 
settlements. 

Immigrants in their westward course entered the " North 
Valley " about the year 1730 or 1731 ; their number stea- 
dily increased till it had reached, in 1740, several thousand ; 
for in 1749, the number of taxables were eight hundred and 
seven ; and so rapid was the increase of first settlers that in 
1751, the taxables numbered eleven hundred and thirty-four. 
So great was the number, and rapid the progress of settle- 
ments, as to alarm the Indians ; for many of the pioneers 
were so iinpatient of the delays of the land office, that they 
pushed settlements beyond the bounds of the purchase o{ 
October 1736 (see pa. 32, ante,) and were viewed, by the 
Indians, and justly too, as intruders. These were chiefly 
Irish, and some few Germans, who seated themselves on the 
Juniata river, Shearman's creek, Tuscarora Path, or Path 
Valley, in the Little, and Big Cove, formed by the Kittatin- 
ny and Tuscarora mountains; and by the Big and Little 
ConolloM^ays. The first of the intruders commenced settle- 
ments on the unpurchased lands about the year 1740' arid 

32* 



378 HISTORY OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY. 

increased despite the complaints of the Indians, the laws of 
the Province, and the proclamations of the governor. 

The Six Nations having consulted in council on this sub- 
ject, sent a grand deputation from every tribe to Philadel- 
phia, to present their remonstrances. The Senecas arrived 
first, and having been attentively heard, were dismissed, with 
a present of one hundred pounds, and with instructions, 
should they meet their compatriots, to report what they had 
done, and to persuade them to return. But the Senecas 
either did not meet the other deputies, or were unable to 
change their determination. They arrived shortly after- 
wards in the city, and on a short conference, were dismissed, 
with a present of fifty pounds. Upon their return, the ef- 
fect of the rival attentions of the Europeans was plainly 
visible upon the Indians. Their respect for the whites was 
much diminished, and their conduct was marked with wan- 
toness and insolence. They killed the cattle of the inhabi- 
tants as they passed through the country, and mischievously 
wasted their orchards. Even the property of Conrad Weiser 
(residing near the present site of Wommelsdorf, Berks coun- 
ty) who was personally known to, and esteemed, by them, 
was not respected by the Tortuloes ; who were, on his com- 
plaints, driven off by the Seneca chiefs. The depredations 
they committed along their route were repaired by the As- 
sembly, that the people, satisfied with their indemnity, might 
bear more patiently the insolence of their visitors. 

The threats of the Indians to do themselves that justice 
they despaired to receive from the government, produced 
prompt and decisive measures. The Secretary of the Pro- 
vince, Mr. Richard Peters, and the interpreter, Mr. Conrad 
Weiser, were directed to proceed to the county of Cumber- 
land, in which the new settlements lay, and to expel the in- 
truders. They were joined by the magistrates of the county, 
the delegates from the Six Nations, a chief of the Mohawks 
and Andrew Montour, an interpreter from Ohio. The com- 
missioners met with little resistence in the execution of their 
duty ; a few only of the settlers, under an apprehension of 
imprisonment, making a show of opposition. All readily en- 
tered into recognizance for their appearance at the next ses- 
sions, and many aided to reduce their own habitations to 
ashes in the presence cf the magistrates and attendant In- 
dians. 



HISTORY OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY. 379 

Mr. Peters displayed on this occasion great pruduce and 
humanity. To the needy he gave money, and proffered an 
asylum on farms of his own ; and to all he granted permis- 
sion to establish themselves on a tract of two .millions of 
acres, purchased from the Indians on the east side of the 
Susquehanna, in the preceding year, for the proprietaries — 
But, notwithstanding this evidence of the resolution of the 
government, and the determination of the Indians, new of- 
fence Mas given to the latter, by new encroachments, within 
a few months. — Gordon. 

The proceedings alluded to above, are inserted at large, 
as being full of interesting and historical incidents. 

To James Hamilton, Esq. Governor of Pennsylvania. 

May it please your Honor: 

Mr. Weiser and I having received your Honor's orders to give 
information to the proper magistrates against all such as had presumed 
to settle and remain on the lands beyond the Kittochtinny mountains, 
not purchased of the Indians, in contempt of the laws repeatedly signi- 
fiied by proclamations, and particu'arly by your Honor's last one, and 
to bring them to a legal conviction, lest i^or want of their removal 
a breach should ensue between the Six Nations cf Indians and this 
Province. We set out on Tuesday, the 15th of May 1750, for the new 
county of Cumberland, where the places on which the trespassers had 
settled, lay. 

At Mr. Croghan's we met with five Indians, three from Shamokin, 
two of which were sons of the late Shickcalamy, who transact the 
business of the Six Nations with this government; two were just 
arrived from Allegheny, viz : one of the Mohock's nation, called 
Aaron, and Andrew Montour, the interpreter at Ohio. Mr. Montour 
telling us he had a message from the Ohio Indians and Twightwees 
to this government, and desiring a conference, one was held on the 
the 18lh of May last, in the presence of James Galbreth, George 
Croghan, William Wilson, and Hermanns Alricks, Esqs., justices of 
the county of Cumberland ; and when Mr. Montour's business was 
done, we, with ,the advice ^of the other justices, imparted to the 
Indians the design we were assembled upon, at which they expressed 
great satisfaction. 

Another conference was held, at the instance of the Indians, in the 
presence of Mr. Galbreth and Mr. Croghan, before mentioned, whereia 
they expressed themselves as follows: 

Brethren, we have thought a great deal of what you imparted to 
us, that ye were come to turn the people off who are settled over 
the hills ; we are pleased to see you on this occasion, and as the 
council of Onondago has this affair exceedingly at heart, and it was 
particularly recommended to us by the deputies of the Six Nations, 
when they parted from us last summer, we desire to accompany 
you, but we are afraid, notwithstanding the care of the governor, that 
this may prove like many former attempts ; the people will be put 



••^i 



380 HISTORY OF CUMBERLAKD COUNTY. 

off now, and neil year come again ; and if so, the Six Nations will 
no longer bear it, but do themselves justice. To prevent this, there- 
fore, when you shall have turned the people off, we recommend it 
to the governor, to place two or three faithful persons over the 
mountains, who may be agreeable to him and us, with commissions, 
empowering them immediately to remove every one who may presume 
after this to settle themselves, until the Six Nations shall agree to make 
sale of their land. 

To enforce this they gave a string of wampum, and received one in 
return from the magistrates, with the strongest assurances that they 
would do their duty. 

On Tuesday, the 22nd of May, Matthew Dill, George Croghan, 
Benjamin Chambers, Thomas Wilson, John Finley and James Gal- 
breath, Esqs., justices of the said county of Cumberland, attended by 
the under sheriff, came to Big Juniata, situate at the distance of twenty 
miles from the mouth thereof, and about ten miles north from the Blue 
Hills, a place much esteemed by the Indians for some of their best 
hunting ground ; and there they found live cabins or log houses, one 
possessed by William White, another by George Gaboon, another not 
quite yet finished, in possession of David Hiddleston, another pos- 
sessed by George and William Galloway, and another by Andrew 
Lycon ; of these persons, William White and George and William 
Galloway, David Hiddleston and George Cahoon appeared before 
the magistrates, and being asked by what riaht or authority they had 
possessed themselves of those lands, and erected cabins thereon ? 
They replied, by no right or authority, but that the land belonged to 
the Proprietaries of Pennsylvania. They then were asked, whether 
they did not know they were acting against the law, and in contempt 
of frequent notices given them by the governor's proclamation 1 
They said they had seen one such proclamation, and had nothing .o 
say for themselves, Shut craved mercy. Hereupon the said William 
White, George and William Galloway, David Hiddleston and George 
Cahoon, being convicted by said justices on their view, the under 
sheriff was charged with them, and he took William White, David 
Huddleston and George Cahoon into custody, but George and William 
Galloway resisted, and having got at some distance from the under 
sheriff, they called to us : You may take our lands and houses and do 
what you please with them; we deliver them to you with all our heart.s, 
but we will not be carried to jail. 

The next morning being Wednesday, the 2.3rd of May, the said 
justices went to the log house or cabin of Andrew Lycon, and finding 
none there but children, and hearing that the father and mother were 
expected soon, and William White and others offering to become 
security, jointly and severally, and to enter into recognizance, as 
well as for Andrew's appearance at court, and immediate removal, as 
for their own ; this proposal was accepted, and William White, David 
Hiddleston and George Cahoon, entered into a recognizance of one 
hundred pounds, and executed bonds to the Proprietaries in the sum 
of five hundred pounds, reciting, that iney were trespassers, and had 
no 'jmanner of right, and had delivered possession to me for the 
Proprietaries. When the magistrates went to the cabin or log house 
of George and William Galloway, (which they had delivered up as 
aforesaid the day before, after they were convicted, and were flying 



HISTORY OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY. 38l 

from the sheriff) all the goods belonging to the said George and 
William were taken out, and the cabin being quite empty, I took 
possession thereof for the Proprietaries; and then a conference was 
heid, what should be done with the empty cabin ; and after great 
deliberation, all agreed that if some cabins were not destroved, they 
would tempt the trespassers to return again, or encourage others to 
come there, should these trespassers go away; and so what was doing 
would signify nothing, since the possession of them was at such a 
distance from the inhabitants could not be kept for the Proprietaries; 
and Mr. Weiser also giving it as his opinion, that if all the cabins 
were left standing, the Indians would conceive such a contemptible 
opinion of the government, that they would come themselves in the 
winter, murder the people, and set their houses on fire. On these 
considerations the cabin, by my order, was burnt by the under sheriff 
and company. 

Then the company went to the house possessed by David Hiddleston, 
who had entered into bond as aforesaid, and he having voluntarily 
taken out all the ^things which were in the cabin, and left me in 
possession, that empty and unfurnished cabin was likewise set on fire 
by the under sheriff, by my order. 

The next day being the 24th of May, Mr. Weiser and Mr. Galbreath. 
with the under sheriff and myself, on our way to the mouth of Juniata, 
called at Andrew Lycon's, with intent only to inform him, that his 
neighbors were bound for his appearance and immediate removal, and 
to caution him not to bring himself or them into trouble by a refusal. 
But he presented a loaded gun tn the magistrates and sheriff; said he 
would shoot the first man that dared to come nigher. On this, he was 
disarmed, convicted, and coma.iited to the custody of the sheriff. This 
J^ whole transaction happened in the sight of a tribe of Indians, who by 
accident had in the night lin.e fixed their tent on that plantation ; and 
Lycons' behavior giving ihem great offence, the Shickcalamies insisted 
on our burning ihe cabin or they would burn it themselves. Whereupon, 
when every thing was taken out of it (Andrew Lycon all the while 
assisting) and possession being delivered to me, the empty cabin was 
set on fire by the under sheriff, and Lycan was carried to jail. 

Mr. Benjamin Chambers and Mr. George Croghan had about an 
hour before separated from us; and on my meeting them again in 
Cumberland county, they reported to me they had been at Sheerman's 
creek, or Little Juniata, situate about 6 miles over the Blue mountain, 
and found there James Parker, Thomas Parker, Owen M'Keib, John 
-M'Clare, Richard Kirkpatrick, James Murray, John Scott, Henry Gass, 
John Cowan, Simon Girtee and John Kilough, who had settled lands 
and erected cabins or log houses thereon ; and having convicted thera 
of the trespass on their view, they had bound them in recognizances 
of the penalty of one hundred pounds, to appear and answer for their 
trespasses on the first day of the next county court of Cumberland, to 
be held at Shippensburgh, and that the said trespassers had likewise 
entered into bonds to the proprietaries in five hundred pounds penalty, 
to remove off immediately, with all their servants, cattle and effects, 
and had delivered possession of their houses to Mr. George Stevenson 
for the proprietaries use ; and that Mr. Stevenson had ordered some of 
the meanest of those cabins to be set on fire, where the families were 
not large, nor the improvements considerable, 



382 HISTORY OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY. 

On Monday the 28th of May we were met at Shippensburg by Sam- 
uel Smith, William Maxwell, George Croghan, Benjamin Chambers, 
Robert Chambers, William Allison, William Trent, John Finley, John 
Miller, Hermanns Alricks and James Galbrelh, Esqrs., justices of 
Cumberland county, who informing us that the people in the Tuscaro- 
ra Path, in Big Cove, and at Aucquick, would submit, Mr. Weiser most 
earnestly pressed that he might be excused any further attendance, 
having abundance of necessary business to do at home ; and the 
other magistrates, though with much reluctance, at last consenting, he 
left us. 

On Wednesday the 30th of May, the magistrates and company, 
being detained two days by rain, proceeded over the Kittochtinny 
mountains, and entered into the Tuscara Path or Path Valley, through 
which the road to Alleghany lies. Many settlements were formed in 
this valley, and all the people were sent for, and the following persons 
appeared, viz; Abraham Slach, James Blair, Moses Moore, Arthur 
Dunlap, Alexander McCariie, David Lewis, Adam McCartie, Felix 
Doyle, Andrew Dunlap, Robert Wilson, Jacob Pyatt, Jacob Pyatt, jr., 
William Ramage, Reynolds Alexander, Samuel Patterson, Robert Ba- 
ker, John Armstrong and John Potts, who were all convicted by their 
own confession to the magistrates, of the like trespasses with those at 
Shearman's creek, and were bound in the like recognizances to appear 
at court, and bonds to the Proprietaries to remove with all their fami- 
lies, servants, cattle and effects, and having all voluntarily given pos- 
session of their houses to me, some ordinary log houses, to the number 
of eleven, were burnt to the ground; the trespassers most of them 
cheerfully and a very few of them with reluctance, carrying out all 
their goods. Some had been deserted before, and lay waste. 

At Aucquick, Peter Falconer, Nicholas De Long, Samuel Perry and 
John Charletcm, were convicted on the view of the magistrates, and 
having entered into the like recognizances and executed the like 
bonds, Charlton's cabin was burnt and fire set to another that was just 
begun, consisting on+y of a few logs piled and fastened to one another. 

The like proceedings at Big Cove (now within Bedford co.) against 
Andrew Donnaldson, John Macclelland, Charles Stewart, James Dow- 
ny, John Macmean, Robert Kendell, Samuel Brown, William Shepperd, 
Roger Murphy, Robert Smith, William Dickey, William Millican,Wm. 
Macconnell, Alexander Macconnell, James Campbell, Wm. Carrell, 
John Martin, John Jamison, Hans Patter, John Maccollin, James Wil- 
son and John Wilson ; who coming before the magistrates, weie con- 
victed on their own confession, of the like trespasses as in former 
cases and were all bound over in like recognizances and executed the 
like bond to the Proprietaries. Three waste cabins of no value were 
burnt at the north end of the Cove by the persons that claimed a right 
to them. 

The Little Cove (in Franklin co.) and the Big and Little Conollo- 
ways, being the only places remaining to be visited, as this was on 
the borders of. Maryland, the magistrates declined going there and de- 
parted for their homes." 

About the year 1740 or 1741 one Frederick Star a German with 
two or three more of his countrymen made some settlements at the 
very place where we found WilliamWhite, the Galloways and Andrew 
Lycon (on Big Juniata, situate at the distance of twenty miles from 



HISTORY OF CUMBTRLAND COUNTY. 383 

ihe mouth thereof and about ten miles north of the Blue Hills, a place 
much esteemed by the Indians for some of their best hunting ground. — 
Votes Assem. vol. iv. p. 138.) which (German settlers) were discovered 
by the Delawares at Sharaokin, to the deputies of the Six Nations as 
they came down to Philadelphia in the year 1742 to hold a treaty with 
this government ; and they were so disturbed at, as to enquire with a 
peculiar warmth of governor Thomas if these people had come there 
by the orders or with the privity of the government; aliedging that if 
it was so, this was a breach of the treaties subsisting between the Six 
Nations and the Proprietor William Penn, who in the most solemn 
manner, engaged to them not to suffer any of the people to settle lands 
till they had purchased them from the Council of the Six Nations. — 
The Governor, as he might with great truth, disowned any knowledge 
of these persons' settlements ; and on the Indians insisting that they 
should be immediately thrown over the mountains, he promised to 
issue his proclamation and if this had no effect, to put the laws in exe- 
cution against them. The Indians in the same treaty publicly expressed 
very severe threats against the inhabitants of Maryland for settling 
lands for which they had received no satisfaction ; and said, if they 
would not do them justice they would do justice to themselves ; and 
would certainly have committed hostilities if a treaty had not been on 
foot between Maryland and the Six Nations under the mediation of 
Governor Thomas ; at which the Indians consented to sell lands and 
receive a valuable consideration for them, which put an end to the 
danger. 

The Proprietaries were then in England, but observing, on perusing 
the treaty, with what asperity they had expressed themselves against 
Maryland, and that the Indians had just cause to complain of the 
settlements at Juniata, so nearShamokin, they wrote to their governor 
in very pressing terms, to cause those trespassers to be immediately 
removed ; and both the Proprietaries and governor laid their commands 
on me to see this done, which I accordingly did in June, 1743 ; the 
governor having first given them notice by a proclamation served on 
them. 

At that time none had presumed to settle at a place called the Big 
Cove — having this name from its being enclosed in the form of a basin 
by the southernmost range of the Kittochtinny Hills and Tuscarora 
Hills, which last end here, and lose themselves in other hills. This 
Big Cove is about 5 miles north of the temporary line and not far west 
of the place where the line terminated. Between the Big Cove and the 
temporary line lies the Little Cove, so called from being likewise 
encircled with hills ; and to the west of the Little Cove, towards 
Potowmec, lie two other places called the Big and Little Conollaways, 
all ol them situate on the temporary line, was it to be extended 
toward Potowmec. 

In the year 1741 or 1742 information was likewise given that people 
were beginning to settle in those places, some from Maryland and some 
from this Province. But as the two governments were then not on 
very good terms, the Governor did not think proper to take any other 
notice of these settlements, than to send the sheriff to serve his 
proclamation on them, thought it ample occasion to lament the vast 
inconveniences which attend unsettled boundaries. After this thg 
French war came on, and the people in those parts taking advantage 



384 HISTORY OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY. 

of the confusion of the times, by little and little stole into the Great 
Core ; so that at the end of the war it was said 30 'families had settled 
there; not however without frequent prohibitions on the part of the 
government, and admonitions of the great danger they run of being 
cut off by the Indians, as these settlements were on lands not purchased 
of ihem. At the close of the war, Mr. Maxwell, one of the justices of 
Lancaster county, delivered a particular message from this government 
to them, ordering their removal, that they might not occasion a breach 
with the Indians ; but it had no effect. 

These were to the best of my remembrance all the places settled by 
Pennsylvanians in the unpurchased part of the Province till about 
three years ago when some persons had the presumption to go into 
Path Valley or Tuscarora Gap, lying to the east of the Big Cove and 
into a place called Aucqnick, lying to the northward of it; and like- 
wise into a place called t5hearraan's creek, lying ail along the waters 
of Juniata, and is situate east of the Path Valley through which the 
present road goes from Harris' Ferry to Allegheny; and lastly they 
extended their settlements to Big Juniata; the Indians all this while 
repeatedly complaining that their hunting ground was every day more 
and more taken from them ; and that there must infallibly arise quar- 
rels between their warriors and these settlers which would in the end 
break the chain of friendship and pressing in the most importunate 
terms their speedy removal. The government in 1748 sent the sheriff 
and three magistrates with Mr. Weiser unto these places to warn the 
people: but they notwithstanding continued Iheir settlements in oppo- 
sition to all this; and as if those people were prompted by a desire to 
make mischief, settled lands no better, nay not so good, as many vacant 
lands within the purchased parts of the Province. 

The bulk of these settlements were made during the administration 
of president Palmer ; and it is well known to your honor, though then 
in England, that his attention to tbe safety of the city and lower 
counties would not permit him to extend more care to places so 
remote. 

Finding such a general submission, except the two Galloways and 
Andrew Lycon and vainly believing the evil would be effectually taken 
away, there was no kindness in my power which I did not do for the 
offenders ; I gave them money where they were poor and telling them 
they might go directly on any part of the two millions of acres lately 
purchased of the Indians ; and where the families were large, as I hap- 
pened to have several of my own plantations vacant, I offered them to 
stay on them rent free, til! they could provide for themselves; then I 
told them that if after all this lenity and good usage, they would dare to 
stay after the time limited for their departure, no mercy would be shew- 
ed them but that they would feel the rigor of the law. 

It may be proper to add, that the cabins or log houses which were 
burnt, were of no considerable value ; being such as the country peo- 
ple erect in a day or two and cost only the charge of an enteriainuient. 

July 2d, 1760. Richard Petkhk. 



CHAPTER XXVr. 

Carlisle, Early Incidents, &c. 

Courts removed from Shippensburg ; excitement occasioned:' Firs 
county officers : Extracts from the Court Records, from the Commis- 
sioners' books, &c.: Carlisle laid out: O'Neal's letter: Indian treaty 
at Carlisle, 1753 : Governor Morris at Carlisle, 1755 : Braddock's 
letter and Governor's answer : Citizensof Carlisle alarmed: Indian 
treaty held here, 1756 : Col. Burd, Commissary Young, Col. Arm- 
strong's letter, &c., extracts from their letters : Corporaiion of Phi- 
ladelphia confers honors of distinction upon Col. Armstrong: Che- 
rokee Warriors here, 1757: Col. John Stanwix encamps here: In- 
dian John, alias Doctor John, killed : Citizens terror stricken : Arm- 
strong's, Penn's letters, &c.: Bouquet returns captives : Affecting in- 
cident, Dec. 1764: Frederick Stump and John Ironculter, rescued 
from jail, 1768: Attempt to rescue Col. James Smith, 1769: Boston 
Port Bill meeting, 1774 : Promptness of the citizens in emergenies : 
Marsh Miasmata: Riotous gatherings in 1787: Washington and 
other distinguished officers at Carlisle, 1794 : Reception of Wash- 
ington, &c.: Volunteer companies of 1812. 

After the county had been erected, John Porter, Esq., 
was appointed Sheriff, and Hermanus Alricks, Esq. Clerk of 
the Peace ; and the following persons as Justices of the 
Common Pleas of the county, by a commission bearing date 
March 10, 1749-50— Samuel Smith, William Maxwell, Geo. 
Croghan, Robert Dunning, Mathew Dill, Benjamin Cham- 
bers, William Trout, Hermanus Alricks, John Miller, Robert 
Chambers, John Finley, and Thomas Wilson. 

The court of Common Please and the criminal court were 
first held at Shippensburg, the oldest town, except York, 
west of the Susquehanna, within the Province of Pennsylva- 
nia. In 1751, after Carlisle had been laid out, they were 
removed to Carlisle, and at first held in a temporary log 

oo 



386 HISTORY OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY. 

building, standing on the north east corner of the centre 
square. 

The Orphans' Court during 1750 to * 5d was not fixed to 
any certain place, " but seems to have followed the persons 
of the judges — it was held at Shippensburg, Carlisle, and 
several other places. June 12, 1751, at Peterstown (Peters 
township, now in Franklin township) — January 4th, 1752, 
in Antrim township (Franklin county) — Match 5, 1755, at 
William Anderson's; afterwards regularly at Carlisle. 

The remoVal of the court of Common Pleas, (or the 
county seat) from Shippensburg to Carlisle produced quite 
an excitement among the inhabitants of the western part of 
the county, and drew forth much complaint ; especially from 
those of the Coiiecocheague and Falling Spring Settlements. 
Their complaiiits are set forth in the following petition pre- 
sented to the Assembly in 1751 : 

A petition from the commissioners and assessors of Cum- 
berland county, in the behalf, and at the desire of the 
far greater part of the inhabitants of the said county, was 
presented to the house setting forth that a majority of the 
trustees, in pursnance of the act of Assembly, whereby that 
county was erected had made a return to the Governor of a 
plan at a branch of the Conecocheague creek, about eigh- 
teen miles from Shippensburg, by the Great Road to Vir- 
ginia, praying a location for a court house and prison there, 
and withal submitting Shippensburg to the Governor's 
choice, which they were fully persuaded would have quieted 
the whole country, although it be north east of the centre : 
yet it has pleased the Governor, to remove their courts of 
justice of Le Tort's Spring, a place almost at one end of the 
county, there it seems intending the location of a court house 
and prison, to the great grief and damage of the far greater 
part of the county, and by means whereof the end of their 
being erected into a county can never be obtained ; which 
was principally to free them from the very grievous fatigue 
and expence occasioned by their great distance from Lancas- 
ter; from which they hoped to be eased, but instead of ease 
their yoke is likely to be heavier , for being but few in num- 
ber, it will be very expensive for them to erect and maintain 
a new county, especially if they are laid under such disad- 
vantages as will ensue upon the placing of the county town 
at Le Tort's Spring, for it will always impoverish them to 



HISTORY OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY. 887 

carry and expend their public money at the extremity of the 
county, where it will never circulate back again ; it will al- 
so occasion great oppression to the poor to pay the costs of 
law suits by reason of far travel, as well as much prevent 
their annual elections, the poorer sort not being able to at- 
tend ; that these difficulties will be much increased to those 
who may settle over the North mountain, in the Cove, cr 
the Path Valley, when these lards shall be purchased ; that 
It does not appear to them, that it will be to the proprietor's 
advantage, or the prosperity of the town of Carlisle, for it 
wdl necessitate the back inhabitants to traffic in Maryland 
to the damage of this province ; and that they can easily 
make it appear, that no good wagon road can be had over 
the North mountain, until they go beyond Shippensburg up 
the valley, where wagons have already passed over without 
any cost or trouble in clearing roads, and which is withal 
the nighest way to Allegheny ; that though they have made 
frequent supplications to the Governor on this head to no 
purpose, yet being still in hopes of relief, they had thought 
It best to defer building a prison, for want of which, escapes 
are made both by felons and debtors, to the great danger of 
the county. They therefore pray that this house would take 
their grievance into consideration, and grant such relief as 
to them shall seem most meet.— Votes Assem. iv. 190, 191. 

''Several citizens of the eastward of the county, on the 
other hand, denied, in a WTitten communication to the As- 
sembly, that no good road could be made over the mountain 
from Shippensburg downward, for that they had, in compa- 
ny with Daniel Williams, their representative, viewed and 
considered the Gap called Stevens', and were satisfied that 
as the whole ascent was but sixty or seventy pershes, by 
traversing it once or twice, ordinary wagons might have 
an easy passage over it. 

" The Governor, on his part, directed his Secretary to say 
to the Assemb[y that he never saw any paper from the 
Cumberland Trustees, such as referred to by the petitioners, 
and therefore admires at the boldness of the petitioners who 
must have asserted that part upon hearsay. Here this con- 
troversy tripartite seems to have terminated, and the courts 
remained at Le Tort's Spring, whither the Governor had re- 
moved them."— CAar^er, ^-c, of Carlisle. 



388 



HISTORY OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY. 



The following is a literal copy of the first record in the 
Court of Quarter Sessions : 

At a Court of General Quarter Sessions of the Peace held 
at Shippensburg for the County of Cumberland the twenty- 
fourth day of July in the twenty -fourth year of the Reign ot 
his Majesty King George the Second Annoq. Dora. 1750. 

Before Samuel Smith Esquire and his Bretheren Keepers 
of the Peace of our said Lord the King and his Justices as- 
sign'd to hear and determine divers Felonies, Trespasses, &c. 

The Sheriff returns the writ of Venire to him directed with 
the Panel thereto annexed and thereupon the following per- 
sons sworn on the Grand Jury, viz William Magaw, John 
Potter, John Mitchell, John Davison, Ezekiel Dunning, 
John Holiday, James Lindsay, Adam Hoops, John Forsyth, 
Thomas Brown, John Reynolds, Robert Harris, Thomas 
Urie, Charles Murray, Robert Meek. 

Domiiius Rex ) Sur Indictmt. for Larceny, not guilty 
vs > & now ye deft ret her pi and submits 

Bridget Hagen ) to ye Ct. And thereupon it is consid- 
ered by the Court and adjudged that ye sd Bridget Hagen 
restore the sum of Six pounds seventeen shillings & sixpence 
lawful money ofPenna nnto Jacob Long ye owner and make 
fine to ye Governor in ye like sum and pay ye costs of pros- 
ecution & receive fifteen lashes on her bare back at ye Pub- 
lic Whipping post & stand committed till ye fine & fees are 
paid. 

The town of Carlisle was laid out, in pursuance of letters 
of instruction, and by the direction of the Proprie- 
taries, a re-survey of the town and lands adjacent was made 
by Colonel Armstrong, in 1762. 

When the town was first located, it extended no further 
than the present North, South, East and ^^'est streets. All 
the surrounding country now within the borough limits was 
purchased back by Mr. Cookson from the settlers, for the 
Proprietaries, and was designed as commons. Subsequently, 
however, principally in the years 1798, 1799, and 1800, the 
" additional lots " and " out lots " were laid out and sold to 
the citizens, but not without the remonstrance of a number 
of the inhabitants, who held a town meeting on the subject, 
and declared that the original lots had been purchased from 
the Proprietaries upon a condition verbally expressed, that 
the Proprietaries' lands adjoining the towp sjiould remain for 



HISTORY OF CUMBERLAND COUNXr. 889 

ever for the benefit of the poor. Because of this dissatisfac- 
tion, the payments of quit-rents, which had been annually 
collected by the agents of the Penns, was interrupted for 
many years, and eventually their recovery was judiciously 
determined to be barred by lapse of time. 

The first tax upon the citizens of Carlisle, of which we 
have any account, was laiJ in December, 1752, and amount- 
ed to £25, 9, 6(1."— Charter, &c. of Carlisle. 

In 1753 Gov. Hamilton despatched John O'Neal to this 
place, on public business, when here he wrote the following 
to the governor under date, Carlisle May 27, 1753. 

Dear Si. — I reached this place a few days since, without 
accident ; having previously embraced an opportunity which 
presented itseh '^f learning the Indian character by attend- 
ing the great Indinn talk in Path Valley — the particulars of 
which ydu will receive from Le Tort. 

The garrison here consists only of twelve men. The stoc- 
cade originally occupied two acres of ground square, with a 
block house in each corner — these buildings are now in ruins. 
As Carlisle has been recently laid out, and is the established 
seat of Justice, it is the general opinion that a number of log 
buildings will be erected during the ensuing summer on spec- 
ulation, in v/hich some accommodation can be had for the 
new levies. The number of dwelling houses is five. The 
court is at present held in a temporary log building on the 
North East cornei^of the centre square. 

If the lots were clear of the brush wood, it would give a 
different aspect to the town. The situation, however is 
handsome, in the centre of a valley, with a mountain bound- 
ing it on the north and south, at a distance of seven miles. 
The wood consists principally of oak and hickory. The 
limestone will be of great advantage to the future settlers 
being in abundance. A lime kiln stands on the centre square* 
near what is called the deep quarry, from which is obtained' 
good building stone. 

A large stream of water runs about two miles from the 
village, which may at a future period be rendered navigable. 
A fine spring flows to the east, called Le Tort, after the In- 
dian interpreter who settled en ils head about the year 1720 
The Indian wigwams in the vicinity of the great Beaver 
pond, are to men an object of particular curiosity. A larce 
number of the Delawares, Shawaiiese asd Tuscaroras con- 

33* 



390 HISTORY OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY. 

tinue in this vicinity ; the greater number have gone to the 
west. I am desirous of learning their customs, habits, and 
manners ; as it may assist me in the object or pursuits in 
which I am engaged — the confidence of the chief, I shall en- 
deavor to obtain. 

I gave captain Joel the commission ; it was well bestowed ; 
his band may be of vast use hereafter in checking the incur- 
sions of the Indians. David Scott is entitled to much praise 
for the liberal offer he has made of paying the expenses in- 
curred by them. If the French are enabled to strenghten 
their positions on the western frontiers, the situation of the 
country will be critical indeed. 

The Irish emigrants have acted with inconsiderate rash- 
ness, in entering upon Indian lands not purchased. It is a 
matter of regret that they do not conciliate and cultivate the 
good will of the Redman. I have directed several block 
houses to be erected agreeably to your desire. — Haz. Reg. 
IV, 389. 

Captain Joel, mentioned in the preceding letter, was a 
remarkable character, as appears from the following extract 
of a letter, dated at Carlisle, 1754 : "Captain Joel is one of 
the most remarkable characters in the province of Pennsyl- 
vania. He emigrated at an early period to the west : bold, 
daring, intrepid, ardent in his affections, zealous in his occu- 
pations as a hunter : when the Indians assumed a warlike 
attitude, he formed an association of the settlers to defend 
the settlements from this aggression. On a given signal they 
would unite. On the Conococheague and Juniata, are left 
the histories of their exploits. At one time you may hear 
of the band near fort Augusta, next at fort Franklin, then 
at Loudon, then at Juniata — rapid were the movements 
of this hardy band. The very name of Joel strikes terror in 
his enemies. He is at present defending the settlements on 
the Conococheague." — Haz. Reg. iv. 890. 

In the same year, 1753, another ' stoccade' of very curi- 
ous construction was erected, whose western gate was in 
High street, between Hanover and Pitt street, opposite lot 
number one hundred. This fortification was thus construct- 
ed. Oak logs, about seventeen feet in length, were set up 
right in a ditch, dug to the depth of four feet. Each log was 
about twelve inches in diameter. In the interior were plat- 
forms made of clapboard, and raised four or five feet from 



HISTORY OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY. 391 

the ground. Upon those the men stood and fired through 
loop-holes. At each corner was a swivel gun, and hred as 
occasion required, to let the Indians know that such kind of 
guns were within. — Haz. Reg. iv. 390. 

Three wells were sunk within the line of the fortress, one 
of which was on lot number 125 ; another on the line be- 
tween lots numbered 109 and 117; and the third on the line 
between lots numbered 124 and 116. This last was for many 
years known as the ' King's Well.'' Within this fort, called 
" Fort Louther," women and children from the Green Spring 
and the country around, often sought protection from the to- 
mahawk of the savBge. Its force, in 1755, consisted of fifty 
men, and that of Fort Franklin, at Shippensburg, of the 
same number. At a somewhat later day, or perhaps aboui 
the same time, breastworks were erected a little north-east 
of the town — as it was then Umited — by Colonel Stanwix, 
some remains of which still exist. — Char. &c. of Carlisle. 

Robert Hunter Morris was at Carlisle, for the purpose, as 
he proposed to the council, June 5th, 1755, "in order to be 
nearer to the army, (Braddock's) to give such directions as 
occurrences should render proper," — (Prov. Rec. N. p. 90,) 
and while here received the last letter ever written to him by 
Edward Braddock, which, with the governor's answer to it 
are here inserted. 

From the Camp at the last crossing of the Yau£;hyaiighani. 

June 30ih, 1755. 

Sir : As I shall very soon be in want of supplies from your province, 
I must beg you would onier all possible dispatch to be made use of in 
finishing the new road as far as the Crow Footof the Yaughyaijghani, 
and immediately afterwards send forward to me such articles of pro- 
vision as shall be in your power. Some of the inhabitants near Fort 
Cumberland having been killed, and taken prisoners by straggling 
parties of Indians, the people in these parts have been detered from 
coming to the camp. My chief defence must therefore be upon vour 
province, where the road will be secure from insults or attacks of that 
kind; and lest it should not be in my power to send a sufficient num- 
ber of wagons or horses, to bring up from the Magazine at M'Dowell's 
mill, the provision I may have occasion for, I must desire you to direct 
Mr. Swaine or some proper person, to have in view such a number of 
them as may answer that purpose, which shall be conducted to the 
camp under a proper escort ; but I would not have any contract or po- 
sitive agreement made till further orders, as I am in hopes this mea- 
sure may not be necessary, and the expense consequently avoided. 

I hope soon to have an express from you, with an exact account of 
the place fixed upon for the communication between the two roads. 
And am sir, your most humble 

and most obedient servant, E. Braddock. 



392 HISTORY OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY. 

Carlisle, July 14, 1755. 
Sir:— 

I have this minute the favor of yours of ihe 30th of last month, from 
the last crossing of the Yohiogany, upon which I congratulate you, 
and hope this will find you in possession of Fort Du Quesne." The 
opening of the road has been somewhat interrupted by some Indians 
who have killed some of the wagoners and people employed in carry- 
ing them provisions, which has greatly alarmed this part of the pro- 
vince. And Mr. Burd writes me from Allegheny mountain that thirty of 
his n en had left him for the want of arms. As soon as possible after 
the people that escaped the Indians returned, a number of settlers were 
procured, and with a proper quantity of flour, were sent under the 
protection of sixty-four volunteers, who I imagine will meet the thirty 
men in their way home and carry them back to their work. As soon as 
I am informed that the new road is nigh joining your route, which, as 
I have wrote, I imagine will be about the Gr^at Crossing, I shall send 
forward a parcel of oxen, some pork, and some flour, as much of the 
two last articles as I can procure wagons to carry : and propose stay- 
ing in this part of the province (where I came to forward and secure 
the Magazine) till that be done. The letter herewith I wrote at Phila- 
delphia, but the bearer has been detained a long tin e on the road on 
account of the murders committed by the Indians, and in hopes of an 
escort from me ; but lor want of militia it is not in my power — so he 
goes round by Winchester, and may be some time before he reaches 
you with the good news he is charged with. 
I am your Excellency's 

most obedient and humble servant, 

RoBKRT H. Morris. 

In the autumn of 1755, the citizens of Carlisle were much 
alarmed in consequence of numerous massacres by the Indians. 
John Armstrong -writes Gov. Morris, Nov. 2d, " I am of 
opinion that no other means than a chain of block-houses 
along or near the south side of the Kittatinny mountain from 
Susquehanna to the temporary line; can secure the lives and 
properties of the old inhabitants of this county; the new 
settlements being all fled, except those of Sherman's valley, 
who, if God do not preserve them, we fear, will suffer very 
soon." 

The following letter, Armstrong addressed to Richard 
Peters : — 

• These fond hopes proved delusive ; Braddock's army was defeated, 
himself mortally wounded, July 9ih, so that he died on the 13th, 1755; 
the French retained possession of Fort Du Quesne till Nov. 24, 1758, 
when they blowed up their Magazine, burnt their Fort to the ground, 
and abandoned the place. — Compiler, 



HISTORY OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY. 893 

Carlisle, Sunday night, Nov. 2, 1755. 
Dear Sir: 

Inclosed to Mr. Allen, by the last post, I sent you a letter from 
Harris'; but I believe forgot, through that day's confusion to direct it. 

You will see our melancholy circumstances by the governor's letter 
and my opinion of the method of keeping the inhabitants in this coun- 
ty, which will require all possible despatch. If we had immediate as- 
surance of relief a great number would stay; and the inhabitants 
should be adveriised not to drive off, nor waste their beef cattle, &c. 
I have not so much as sent off my wife fearing an ill precedent, but 
must do it now, I believe, together with the public papers and your own. 

There are no inhabitants on Juniata, nor on Tuscarora by this time, 
my brother William being just come in. Montour and Monaghatootha 
are going to the Governor. The former is greatly suspected of being 
an enemy in his heart— 'tis hard to tell— you can compare what ihey 
say to the Governor with what I have wrote. I have no notion of a 
large army, but of great danger from scouting parties. 

In the month of January, from the loth to the 22d, 1756, 
there was another Indian treaty of amity held in Carlisle. — 
See Appendix, L. 

Mr. Burd write Geo. Morris. Carlisle, April 19, 1756. 

Sir: I arrived here on Friday evening and began immediately to 
recruit ; but found few volunteers ; all that I have been able to enlist, 
are four men for twelve months, and althou^ih I told the commissioners 
again and again, candidly, thai there would he a good deal of difficulty 
in filling up the company, with advance money, yet they were of opin- 
ion that there would be men enough got without running the risque of 
advancing ; but I must beg leave to inform your Honor that the Com- 
missioners are deceived in this, as they will be in the dependences they 
may have or assistance from the country, from people who are not in 
their pay. 

On Saturday afternoon, Capt. Mercer arrived here, and is recruit- 
ing for the company at Fort Shirley, and as he was a stranger in town, 
I have procured him thirty pounds from Mr. Francis West, upon my 
obligation, and for which Cap. Mercer gives Mr. West a draught upon 
the commissioners— this r thought myself under obligation to do for 
the good of the service, which is an interest I shall always have at 
heart. I intended to have marched this morning for Fort Granville; 
but the creeks are so high that the carriers cannot attempt to get their 
horses and loads over; but hope to be able to go to-morrow morning. 
I shall return here with Mr. Salter towards the^latter end of this week 
or the beginning of the week following, in order to recruit my com- 
pany. 

I am informed that they are entirely out of all manner cf provisions 
at Fort^ranville, which is a very bad situation, as the enemy are con- 
stantly visiting them ; they have wounded two men within sight of the 
Fort, and one of the men's life is despaired of— they would have car- 
ried off one of them had not Lieut. Ward rushed out of the Fort and 
rescued him. Mr. Ward sent a detachment under the command of 
George Clark after the enemy ; but could not come up with them. 



394 HISTORY OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY. 

I could wish we had a surgeon and medicines— we shall loose one 
half -of our nien with perhaps slighf wounds, purely for want of assis- 
tance. I am glad that I have not disagreeable news of late incursions 
by the enemy to sting your Honor's ears with ; but I am convinced that 
unless these garrisons arc re-inforced to one hundred and fifty men 
each, and sufficient stores of ammunition and provisions, that this 
part of our province will be forced. 

Commissary Young writes : Carlisle, July 22, 1756. 

Sir: By the Winchester Post we have advice that the 20th instant 
in the morning a party of Indians surprised two of Capt. Steel's men 
as they were guarding some reapers (bur miles on this side McDow- 
ell's mill ; they killed and scalped one, the other they carried off; the 
reapers made their escape ; also that one of the foldiers from Max- 
well's mill that went with two women to the spring for some water, is 
missing; the women got in safe to the fott, and almost at the same 
time a man and a woman were scalped a few miles on the other side 
the mill; and, yesterday morning eight Indians came to the house of 
Jacob Peebles, near the Great Spring and McClure's Gap, about ten 
miles from this place, on this side the mountain, they killed an old wo- 
man and carried off two children ; and an old man is missing; they 
pursued a boy who was on horse back a long way; but he escaped. 
There were some people reaping a small distance from the house but 
knew nothing of what was doing at home ; for the Indians did not fire 
a gun, they carried odall the clothes and bedding that was in the house; 
a party went from this town to bury the dead and are returned again ; 
they informed me that the country people are leaving their houses to 
come down as there is great reasons to fear many more Indians will 
soon be among them. 

The money which the Commissioners were to send, is not yet come, 
nor is Col. Armstrong ; and I am now at a loss what to do when it 
does come, as no doubt there are several parties of Indians within our 
Forts, and we have only a small party of men in each Fort, the others 
being all scattered in small parties, at a considerable distance from 
each other, to protect the country people at harvest, so it will be im- 
possible to collect the men together to muster them without greatly 
distressing the country people and disappoint them of reaping their 
grain ; for they will all leave it if the men are taken from them ; nei- 
ther can I be supplied with proper escorts from the forts without leav- 
ing them empty ; I shall therefore be glad to have your Honor's further 
orders, whether I shall proceed in the best manner I can. or when the 
money comes to leave it in the charge of Col. Armstrong, or Mr. John 
Smith, with orders to pay the several Captains, or any of their officers 
as an opportunity may offer, any sum that will not exceed the pay for 
their respective companes to the 1st of July, about £250 per each 
company, mure or less according to their accounts stands which I have 
with me, and I may muster the men and settle their accounts the next 
time I come up when harvest will be over. 

Capt. Potter was here yesterday; I paid him £100 of the money I 
had left from Colonel Clapham's regiment (see p. 321) in case I should 
not get up to him. Lieutenant Callender came last night with 20 of his 
men : he left eleven in Shearman's valley to protect the reapers ; he, 
with Capt. Aamstrong and 40 men, have been on a scout as far as 



HISTORY OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY. 895 

Shamokin ; from thence they went 50 miles due west, and then down 
to Patterson's fort, but saw no enemy. He informs me that last Mon- 
day two Indian Squaws that were at Fort Shirely went off with one of 
our men, a fellow that has formerly been an Indian trader; the Squaws 
are the daughters of the Indian Half King who was killed last winter. 
I fear that fellow may be of bad consequences to us, as he knows our 
situation well. 

I have endeavored to put this large Fort in the best posture of de- 
fence I can, but am sorry to say the people of this town cannot be pre- 
vailed on to do any thing for their own safety. I proposed to them to 
associate and to place a picket guard at a small distance from the Fort 
to prevent being surprized; but to no purpose; they say they will 
guard when there is danger ! though the enemy is now committing 
murder but ten miles from them ! They seemed to be lulled into fatal 
security ! A strange infatuation which seems to prevail throughout 
this Province." 

Carlisle, July 23d, 1756. 
Col. Armstrong wrote Gov. Morris : 

Honored Sir — Being but just got home, I am unable to furnish your 
Honor with the occurences of these two days past, in which time the 
Indians have began to take advantage of the harvest season. Seven 
people on this side the Kittatinney Hills, being killed and missing with- 
in this county, and two on the South side of the Temporary line. The 
enemy have not yet attacked any of the people over the Hills, but pass- 
ed them by; probably on account of finding them better guarded and 
disposed of. 

As soon as Capt. Young concludes whether to cross the Hills or not, 
I shall visit the out guards, and endeavor to keep the people in larger 
companies. Wheat harvest is more than half done. 

I shall send to Harris's for the saddles and clams, and in my next, 
write the Commissioners of the powder last sent here ; the advantage 
and necessity of strengthening the new arms &c. The Indians are 
not in large parties, but distributed in different places of the frontier." 

August 20, 1756, Col. Armstrong writes — "Lyttleton, Shippensburg, 
and Carlisle (the two last not finished) are the only forts, now buili, 
that will, in my opinion, be serviceable to the public. 

The duties of the harvest have not permitted me to finish Carlisle 
Fort with the soldiers; it should be done, otherwise the soldiers can- 
not be so well governed, and may be absent, or without the gates, at a 
time of the greatest necessity. 

He adds — " To-morrow I shall set out for Shearman's valley, for 
Fort Shirley" — He alludes to his expedition to Kittanning where be 
routed the Indians most signally. 

The corporation of Philadelphia, on the occasion of this 
victory, to show their esteem for this valiant and brave sol- 
dier, presented him a piece of plate or medal. So well mer- 
ited complement is entitled to be noticed somewhat in detail. 
The following extracts are from the minutes of the Common 
Council of the city of Philadelphia. 



396 HISTORY OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY. 

October 5, 1756 — It being proposed that this Board should 
give some public testimony of their regard and esteem for 
Col. John Armstrong and the other officers concerned in the 
late expedition against the Indians at Kittanning, and the 
courage and conduct shown by them on that occasion, and 
also contribute to the relief of the widows and children of 
those who lost their lives in that expedition. Resolved, that 
this board will give the sum of one hundred and fifty pounds 
out of their stock in the Treasurer's hands, to be paid out 
in pieces of plate, swords, or other things suitable for pres- 
ents to the said officers and towards the relief of the said 
Widows and Children. 

The following is a description of the medal sent to Col. 
Armstrong. 

Occasion. In honor of the late General Armstrong of 
CarUsle, Pennsylvania, for destroying Kittaning Indian 
towns. 

Tievice. An officer followed by two soldiers : the officer 
pointing to a soldier shooting from behind a tree, and an In- 
dian prostrate before him. In the back ground, Indian houses 
are seen in flames. 

Legend. Kittaning destroyed by Colonel Armstrong, Sep- 
tember, 1756. 

Reverse. Device — The arras of the corporation of Phila- 
delphia. These consisted of four devices: on the right hand 
a ship under full sail : on the left, a pair of scales, equally 
balanced in the right, above the ship, a wheat sheaf: in the 
left, two hands locked. 

Legend. The gift of the corporation of the city of Phila- 
delphia. 

The following correspondence (taken from Pa. Gazette of 
Feb. 17, 1757,) passed between the corporation and Colonel 
Armstrong. 

To Colonel John Armstrong. 

Sir: The corporation of the city of Philadelphia greatly approve of 
your conduct and public spirit in the late expedition against the town 
of Kittanning, and are highly pleased with the signal proofs of courage 
and personl bravery given by you, and the officers under your com- 
mands, in demolishing of that place. I am therefore ordered to return 
you and them the thanks of the board for the eminent service you have 
thereby done your country. I am also ordered by the corporation to 
present you, out of their small public stock, with a piece of plate and 
silver medal, and each of your officers with a medal and a small sum 



HISTORY OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY. 397 

of money to be disposed of in the manner most agreeable to them ; 
which the board desire you will accept as a testimony of the regard 
they have for your merit. 

Signed by order, 

Attwood Shcte, Mayor. 
January 5, 1757. 

To the Mayor, Recorder, Aldermen, and Common Council of the Cor* 
poration of the city of Philadelphia. 

Gentlemen— Your favor of the 5ih instant, together with the medals 
and other genteel presents made to the officers of my batallion by the 
Corporation of the city of Philadelphia, I had the pleasure to receive 
by Capt. George Armstrong. 

The officers employed in the Kittanning expedition, have been made 
acquainted with the distinguished honor you have done them, and de- 
sire to join with me in acknowledging it in the most public manner. 
The kind acceptance of our past services by the Corporation, gives ns 
the lightest pleasure and furnishes a fresh motive for exerting oursel- 
ves on every future occasion for the benefit of his Majesty's service in 
general, and in defence of this province in particular. In behalf of 
the officers of my batallion, 

I have the honor to be. Gentlemen, 

Your most obedient and obliged humble servant, 

JoHJi AnMsxnoNG. 

Carlisle, January 24, 1757. 

In May 1757, a number of Cherokee warriors was at 
Carlisle, who had come from the South, to aid the English 
against the French and their allied savages. Col. Armstrong 
wrote Governor Denny the following touching these Indians. 

Carlisle, May 4, 1757. 

Honored Sir: A lislof what was thought most desired by the Cher- 
okee Indians, I sent down with their speeches to your Honor, and 
would beg leave to alledge that a considerable part of the present ou<'ht 
to be wampum, with some beads, and next to these an assorimenl\'f 
some silver trinkets, with three laced hats, as it is probable that three 
captains will be there— two or three coals with tinsel lace might be 
very well, but those I think will be more expedient at a future time, 
and nearer the approach of cold weather. 

I have ordered my brother, who yesterday returned, to write your 
Honor the several sorts of goods given by the governor of Maryland, 
that yours may have a convenient variation. That province has given 
about £280 in value ; and, though I should be glad Pennsylvania would 
a little exceed it; yet am fully of opinion that a number of Indians 
will actually assist us this summer, and more of their nation come to 
these provinces, which will require future rewards, as from time to 
time prudence may direct. 

Your Honor will no doubt, order a present for Mr. Paris, the inter- 
preter. I hear Governor Sharp's secretary, who delivered his speech 
and present, had orders to offer Paris a captaincy in pay of that pro- 

34 



398 HISTORY OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY. 

vince ; and that he is inclined to accept of it, which 1 hope will be of 
use to this — I am sorry your Honor cannot either come, or send your 
•Secretary to the Southern Indians ; for however necessary Mr. Croghan 
may be where he is acquainted, neither he nor the Indians, 'tis said, 
he brings with him can be so, in the present case, and the consequen- 
ces in my opinion are not very promising ; but farther is not becoming 
me to say. 

Carlisle, June 2d, 1757. 
May it please your Honor, 

Your favor of the 21st of May was delivered me by Col. Stanwix - 
who encamped here on the 30th ult — all well. 

In regard to an excursion to the enemy's country, it will be expe- 
dient to know the minds of the Cherokees, after the receipt of their 
presents; and it is necessary that some person be employed to promise 
them rewards for future service. Mr. Croghan says, he has not that 
power, which is very strange ! — the other governments being so ex- 
plicit on that point. 

To-morrow, Capt. Croghan sends an express to the Cherokees to 
come to meet him ; and, I believe, designs to augment the provincial 
present. 

Co!. Stanwix treats me with much civility. I do according to your 
Honor's orders, assist him in every thing I can — I shall obey his 
orders. — 

Camp, near Carlisle, June 12, 1757. 
Dear Sir. 

A few days ago Col. Armstrong left this place, with fifty of the Pro- 
vincials for Fort Loudon, under which party the Indian presents were 
guarded ; and Mr. Croghan set out two days before him. Col. Arm- 
strong seemed inclined to meet the Southern tribe, and have some con- 
ference with Capt. Paris, and to try if these people would join a scont 
towards Raystown ; to all which I consented, though really as to the 
Indian matters, you must know I can be but a stranger, and I find that 
all those employed as agents, very jealous of one another, and I can 
percieve Mr. Croghan so of Col. Armstrong ; and by the enclosed you 
will find Mr. Atkins so, of them all, as well as of the Province. The 
inclosed is a copy of one yesterday from Col. Armstrong which would 
not have been worth an express; but as one is returning from Phila- 
delphia, I give you this trouble, which may be a satisfaction to you, 
as our accounts, till I got this letter, gave out that Lieut. Hollyday, 
with fifteen of his party, were all either killed by the Indians, or taken 
prisoners. Believe me &c. John Stanwix. 

P. S. I send out scouting parties here, three or four times a week, 
but have yet met with no Indians — I find a few of the Provincials, 
joined with me on these occasions, very useful, as they are really good 
men, and know the country.— Prov. Rec. P. p. 309-'10. 

Stanwix writes under date, Camp near Carlisle, June 13, 1757. 
Dear Sir. 

I write this, and enclose these accounts, ready to send you, when an 
opportunity offers, which is always uncertain, as there is no post to 
Lancaster. Mr. Atkin's account is long; and as I have no clerk, I 
send it as I recieved it, without keeping a copy, when you have read 
it, please to return it, as I may have further occasion to peruse it. I 



HISTORY OF CUMBTRLAND COUNTY. 399 

send you a copy of Col. Armstrong's letter with his last account of the 
last skirmishes with, and surprise by the Indians &c." 

He writes again, June 19. 

By this express, I am to let you know that I only wait for wagons 
to march to-Shippensburg, but when I shall be able to set out it is im- 
possible for me to say, as in two days notice I have yet been able to 
get but two wagons, and these my quartermaster stopped himself; how- 
ever, the magistrates give me to hope, I shall be supplied in a day or 
two. The reason of my moving is the hearing of intelligence from 
<^aptain Dagworthy, who commands at Fort Cumberland.— Prov. Rec. 
P. p. 312. See also pa. 133, ante. 

Col. Armstrong, writes under date, Carlisle 30th June 1757. 

Colonel Stanwix has begun and continues his entrenchment on the 
north east part of this town, and just adjoining it.— See pa. 133, ante. 

Camp, near Carlisle, July 18, 1757. 
J^ear Sir, 

Since my last letter there is nothing worth mentioning to you, except 
the inclosed letter and information from Fort Cumberland should prove 
so. I give it to you just as I have recieved it without any of my ob- 
servations. 

y> hat enemy Indians may remain about this border, I cannot say ; 
but do every thing in my power to make their situation uneasy to them. 
Two days ago, Capt. Munster and two officers of the five Companies 
and seventy men with one officer, and eight provincials (all the rest of 
these last being either upon harvest parties or small scouts) returned 
from- a scout but without seeing any of the enemy. They were out 
three days marching between the cre^k and the North Mountain as 
far as the Susquehanna, they crossed over the North Mountain and 
returned through Sherman's valley, saw the track of some Indians: 
propose to make another good scout very soon. I have no doubts but 
skulking Indians may do mischief; but can do little harm if the peo- 
ple would do a small matter, defend themselves, and think upon these. 

The Indians here are upon the move with their presents to Fort Lou- 
don, to join their Brethren, where a distribution will be made by the 
person deputed by Mr. Croghan ; but they are very much out of hu- 
mor at hearing of Col. Washington's putting some of their Brother 
prisoners at Winchester— the cause is not directly known. I have 
been obliged to send Mr. Smith with a guide to Col. Washington to 
see how this affair stands, and he is to return and meet them at Fort 
Loudon. This they insisted on. The chief of these Indians tells me 
they can bring down five hundred warriors ; but if sending for them 
should ever be thought a proper measure, a commissary with provi- 
sions should be first settled for them, and presents ready to be deliver- 
ed them on their services performed agreeable to the numbers em- 
ployed. 

Believe me, Joux Stanwix. 

Camp, near Carlisle, July 35, 1757. 

Dear Sir, 

As Col. Armstrong will give a particular account of the misfortune 
of some obstinate people who were through that and their careless- 
ness surprised and murdered by the Indians towards Shippensburg. 



400 HISTORY OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY. 

at their harvest, I shall add nothing to this relation 1 have had two 
Captains piquets out these three days, one scouring the country up as 
far as Shippensburg, and the other up as far as the Susquehanna, but 
expect them both in to morrow or next day. 

Col. Armstrong has so few men here that I could only get six of 
them to each piquet by way of guides at present, they being much better 
acquainted with this portion of the woods. 

In spite of our blood, the Indians still do us mischief, but the last effect 
does really proceed from both obstinacy and carelessness of which Col. 
Armstrong will give the governor a particular account as he has it from 
Shippensburg. 

I am at work at my entrenchments, but as I send out such large and 
frequent parties, with other necessary duties, I can only spare about 
seventy working men a day, and these have been very often interrupted 
by frequent violent gusts, so that we make but a small figure yet, and 
the first mouth was entirely taken up in clearing the ground, which was 
all full of monstrous stumps &c. 

- I have built a hut in Camp, where the captains and I live to- 
gether, and as you have promised to come this way about August. 

Mr. Allen came here, he and Capt. Stewart are both on the scout 
for some days; the first towards Shippensburg; the latter towards 
the Susquehanna; and am sorry all this will not do, but skulking 
Indians still hover about us. — See p. 135, ontc. 

Jouii Stanwix. 

To Mr. Peters. 

The town of Carlisle, in 1760, wits made the scene of a 
barbarous murder. Doctor John, a friendly Indian of tlie 
Delaware tribe, was massacred, together with his wife and 
two children. Captain Callender, who was one of the in- 
quest, was sent for by the Assembly, and, after interrogating 
him on the subject, they offered a reward of one hundred 
pounds for the apprehension of each person concerned in the 
murder. — See p. 158-161 

About noon day, on the 4th of July, 1763, one of a party 
of horsemen, who were seen rapidly riding through the town, 
stopped a moment to quench his thirst, and communicated 
the information that Presque Isle, Le Boeuf, and Venango 
had been captured by the French and Indians. The great- 
est alarm spread among the citizens of the town and neigh- 
boring country. The roads were crowded in a little whilp 
with women and children, hastening to Lancaster for safety. 
The pastor of the Episcopal church headf d his congregation, 
encouraging them on the way. Some retired to the breast- 
works. Colonel Bouquet, in a letter addressed to the Gov- 
ernor, dated the day previous; (See p. 145 ante: see also 
p. 139-143 ante,) at Carlisle, urged the propriety of the 



HISTORl' OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY. 401 

people of York assisting in building the posts here, and 'secur- 
ing the harvest,' as their county was protected by Cumber- 
land. — Charter &.c., of Carlisle. 

Extract from a letter dated Carlisle, Dec. 14, 1763. 

The people drove off by the enemy from the north side of the moun- 
tains, forms the frontiers as they are mixed with other settlers on the 
north side, where of consequence the motions of the ranging party are 
required : at the same time those who were drove from their habitations 
have some part of their efl'ects yet behind and their crops stacked in 
the field through the different valleys at a considerable distance be- 
yond the mountains — to these distressed people we must afford cover- 
ing parties as often as they require them, or will convene in small 
bodies in order to thrash out, and carry over grain wherewith to sup- 
ply their families — this last mentioned service necessarry as it is, 
greatly obstructs that uniform course of patrolling behind the inhabi- 
tants, that otherwise might be performed. 

Joiiy Ah.mstboico. 

To John Penn- 

In 1763, the congregation of Christ's church and St Peter's 
(in Phil.) raised the sum of £662 for the relief of the frontier 
inhabitants, especially in Cumberland county. 

WilUara Thomson, a missionary at Carlisle at this time 
writes*. 

We find the number oi the distressed to be seven hundred 
and fifty families, who have abandoned their plantations, 
many have lost their crops, and some their stock and furni- 
ture, and besides these we are informed that about two him- 
dred women and children are coming down from Fort Pitt. 
The unhappy sufferers are dispersed through every part of 
this county, and many have passed through into York. In 
this town and neighborhood, there are ujiwards of two hun- 
dred families, and having the alTliction of the small pox snd 
flux to a great degree. — See p. 17 J -'2. 

Florida Like ! Extract of a letter from John Penn, Esq. 
Lieut. Gov. to James Young, Esq. Paymaster — John Penn 
hud latelv arrived from England. 

Phil. Jan. 28, 1764. 

^ When you arrive at Carlisle you will immediately engage 
the gunsmiths or arraorors in and about that place,, and 
order them to repair such arms of the Provincial troops as are 
out of order, as fast as they arrive there. 

You will acquaint the captains that every soldier will le 
allowed three shil.ings per month, who brings wilh him a 
strong dog that shall be judged proper to be employed in 

34* 



402 HISTORY OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY. 

discovering and pursuing the savages. It is recommended 
to them to procure as many as they can, not exceeding ten 
per company ; each dog is to be kept tied and led by his 
owner.' 

The terror of the citizens subsided but little, until Colonel 
Eouquet conquered the Indians in the following year, (in the 
month of November) 1764, and compelled them to sue for 
peace. One of the conditions upon which peace was granted, 
was that the Indians should deliver up all the women and 
children whom they had taken into captivity. Among them 
were many who had been seized when very young, and had 
grown up to womanhood in the wigwam of the savage. — 
They had concentrated the wild habits of their captors, 
learned their language and forgotten their own, and were 
bound to them by ties of the strongest affection. Many a 
mother found a lost child ; many were unable to designate 
their children. The separation between the Indians and 
their prisoners was heart-rending. The hardy son of the 
forest shed torrents of tears, and every captive left the wig- 
wain with reluctance. Some afterwards made their escape, 
and returned to the Indians. Many had intermarried with 
the natives, but all left to freedom of choice, and those who 
remained unmarried had been treated with delicacy. One 
female, who had been captured at the age of fourteen, had 
become the w^ife of an Indian, and the mother of several 
children. When informed that she was about to be delivered 
to her parents, her grief could not be alleviated. " Can I," 
said she, "enter my parents' dwelling? will they be kind to 
my children? will my old companions associate with the wife 
of an Indian chief? and my husband, who has been so kind, 
I will not desert him ?" That night she fled from the camp 
to her husband and children. 

A great number of the restored prisoners were brougl/t 
to Carlisle, and Col. Bouquet advertised for those who had 
lost children to come here and look for them. Among those 
that came was an old woman, whose child, a little girl, had 
been taken from her several years before; but she was unable 
to designate htr daughter, or converse with the released cap- 
tives. With breaking heart, the old woman lamented to 
Col. Bouquet her hopeless lot, telling him how she used, 
many years ago to sing to her little daughter, a hymn of 



HISTORY 01 CUMBERLAND COUNTY. 403 

which the child was so fond. She was requested by the 
Colonel to sing it then, which she did in these words : 

Allein, und doch nicht ganz alleine, 

Bin ich in raeiner einsamkeit; 
Dann wann ich gleich verlassen scheine, 

Vertreibt mir Jesus selbst die zeit: 
Ich bin bey ihm, und er bey mir, 

So komrat mir gar nichts einsam fuer.* 

And the long lost daughter rushed into the arras of her 
mother. This happened December 31, 1764. — Hallische 
J^ach. 1033. 

In January 1768, the citizens of Carlisle and vicinity 
were greatly excited, in consequence of one Stump and Iron- 
cutter being rescued from jail. — See p. 173, 178 ante. 

A similar attempt was pbout being made in the autumn of 
1769, to rescue James Smith, who was accused of having 
killed a man in a scuffle at Fort Bedford. — See chap, xxxvi. 

When Great Britain, by way of forcing the Colonies into 
compliance, and when the first vials of displeasure were be- 
ino- poured out upon this country, especially upon the Bosto- 
nians, the inhabitants of Carlisle and vicinity, ever vigilant 
and active, manifested more than ordinary sympathy for their 
suffering brethren in the east, and were prompt and decisive. 
A public meeting was called, the minutes of which given be- 
low, show what manner of spirit they breathed: 

At a respectable meeting of the freeholders and freemen 
from several townships of the Cumberland county in the 
province of Pennsylvania, held at Carlisle in the said county, 
on Tuesday the l2th day of July 1774; John Montgomery 
Esq., in the chair. 

1. Resolved, That the late act of the parliament of Great 
Britain, by which the port of Boston is shut up, is oppres- 
sive to that town, and subversive of the rights and liberties 
of the Colony of Massachusetts Bay; that the principle up- 

* Translation of Allein, Sec. 

Alone, yet not alone am I, 

'I'hough in this solitude so drear : 
I feel my Saviour al«'ays nigh, 

He comes my dreary hoars to cheer; 
I'm with him, and he with me, 

Thus, cannot solitary be. 



404 HISTORY OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY. 

on which that act is founded, is not more subversive of the 
rights and hberties of that colony, than it is ol all other 
British colonies in North America; and therefore, the inhabi- 
tants of Boston are suffering in the common cause of all 
these colonies. 

2. That every vigorous and prudent measure ought spee- 
dily and unanimously to be adopted by these colonies for ob- 
taining redress of the grievances under which the inhabi- 
tants of Boston are now laboring; and security from griev- 
ance of the same or of a still more severe nature, under 
which they and the other inhabitants of the colonies may, 
by a further operation of the same principle, hereafter labor. 

o. That a Congress ot Deputies from all the colonies, will 
be one proper method for obtaining these purposes. 

4. That the same purposes will, in the opinion of this 
meeting, be promoted by an agreement of all the colonoies 
not to import any merchandize from nor export any mer- 
chandize to Great Britain, Ireland, or the British West In- 
dies, nor 10 use any such merchandize so imported, nor tea 
imported from any place whatever till these purposes shall 
be obtained ; but that the inhabitants of this county will 
join any restriction of that agreement which the General 
Congress may think it necessary for the colonies to confine 
themselves to. 

5. That the inhabitants of this county will contribute to 
the relief of their suffering brethren in Boston, at any time 
when they shall receive intimation that such relief will be 
most seasonable. 

6. That a committee be immediately appointed for this 
county, to cori-espond with the committee of this province, 
or of the other provinces, upon the great objects of the 
public attention; and toco-operate in every measure con- 
ducing to the general welfare of British America. 

7. That the committee consist of the following persons, 
viz: James Wilson, John Armstrong, John Montgomery, 
William Irvine, Robert Callender, William Thompson, John 
Calhoon, Jonathan Hoge, Robert Magaw, Ephraim Blane, 
John Allison, John Harris and Robert Miller, or any five of 
them. 

8- That James Wilson, Robert Magaw and William Ir- 
vine, be the Deputies appointed to meet the Deputies from 
other counties of this province at Philadelphia, on Friday 



HISTORY OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY. 405 

next, in order to concert measures preparatory to the Gen- 
eral Congress. John Montgomery, Chairman. 

When the threatened storm approached, they were equal- 
ly firm in their determinations to resist all oppression. They 
organized for defence. Preparatory measures were adopted. 
A gentleman writing from Carlisle, May 6, 1775, says: 

Yesterday the County Committee met from nineteen town- 
ships, on the short notice they had. About three thousand 
men have already associated. The arms returned amount 
to about fifteen hundred. The committee have voted five 
hundred effective men, besides commissioned officers, to be 
immediately drafted, taken into pay, armed and disciplined, 
to march on the first emergency ; to be paid and supported 
as long as necessary, by a tax on all estates, real anil per- 
sonal, in the county ; the returns to be taken by the town- 
ship committees ; and the tax laid by the commissioners and 
assessors: the pay of the officers and men as usual in times 
past. 

This morning we met again at eight o'clock ; among other 
subjects of inquiry this day, the mode of drafting, or taking 
into pay, arming and victualling immediately the men, and 
the choice of field and other officers, will among other mat- 
ters, be the subject of deliberation. The strength, or spirit 
of this county, perhaps may appear small, if judged by 
the number of men proposed; but when it is considered that 
we are ready to raise fifteen hundred or two thousand, should 
we have support from the Province ; and that independent, 
and in uncertain expectation of support, we have voluntarily 
drawn upon this county, a debt of about <£27,000 per an- 
num, I hope we shall not appear contenoptible. ^^ e make 
great improvements in military discipline. It is yet uncer- 
tain who may go. — Jim. Archives, ii, 516. 

"During the war Carlisle was made an important place of 
rendezvous for the American troops, and in consequence of 
being located at a distance from the theatre of war, British 
prisoners were frequently sent hither for secure confinement. 

"Of these were two officers, Major Andre, and Lieutenant 
Despard, who had been taken by Montgomery near Lake 
Champlain. While here, in 1776, they occupied the stone 
house on lot number one hundred and sixty-one, at the cor- 
ner of South Hanover street and Locust Alley, and were on 
parole of honor of six miles; but were prohibited going out 
of the town except in military dress. 



40G 



HISTORY OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY. 



"In the immediate neighborhood lived Mrs. Ramsey, an 
unflinching whig, who detected two tories in conversation 
with these officers, and immediately made known the cir- 
cumstance to William Brown, Esq., one of the county com- 
mittee. The tories, being pursued, were arrested somewhere 
between the town and South mountain, brought back, tried 
instantc)\ and imprisoned. Upon their persons were discov- 
ered letters written in French; but no one could be found to 
interpret them, and their contents were never known. 

"After this occurrence, Andre and Despard were not al- 
lowed to leave the town. They had in their possession, 
fowling pieces of superior w^orkmanship, with which they 
had been in the habit of pursuing game within the limits of 
theii' parole; but now, being unable to use them, they broke 
them to pieces, declaring that "no d — d rebel should ever 
burn powder in them." During their confinement here, a 
man by name Thompson, enlisted a company of militia in 
what is now Perry county, and marched them to Carlisle. 
Eager to make a display of his own bravery and that of his 
recruits, he drew up his soldiers at night in front of the 
house of Andre and his oompani'^n, and swore lustily that 
he would have their lives, because as he alledged, the Ame- 
ricans who were prisoners of war in the hands of the Brit- 
ish, were dying by starvation. Through the importunities, 
liowever, of Mrs. Ramsey, Captain Thompson, who had 
formerly been an apprentice to her husband, was made to 
desist; and as he countermarched his company, with a me- 
nacing nod of the head he bellowed to the objects of his 
wrath, "you may thank my old mistress for your lives." 

"On the following morning, Mrs. Ramsey received from 
the British officers a very polite note, expressing their grati- 
tude to her for saving them from the hacking sword of the 
redoubtable Captain Thompson. They were afterwards rt- 
raoved to York, but ^before their departure, sent to Mrs. 
Ramsey a box of spermaceti candles, with a note request- 
ing her acceptance of the donation, as an acknowledgment 
of her many acts of kindness. The present was declined, 
Mrs. Ramsey averring that she was too staunc*i a whig to 
accept a gratuity from a British officer. Despard was exe- 
cuted at London in 1803, for high treason. \N ith the fate 
of the unfortunate Andre, every one is familiar. 

"The town of Carlisle was incorporated, and its present 



HISTORY OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY. 407 

boundaries fixed, by an act of Assembly, passed the l3th of 
April, 1782 ; but the charter was supplied by a new enact- 
ment of the 4th of March, 1814. Under the old charter, 
the style of the corporation was " The Burgesses and In- 
habitants of !he town of Carlisle." Having no council, all 
corporate business was transacted in town meeting. The 
early borough records are somewhat imperfect, and the at- 
fairs of the corporation appear to have been loosely mana- 
ged. V\ hen the yellow fever, however, in 1793, was cora- 
raittmg Its ravages in Philadelphia, there was no lack of ac- 
tive exertion, by the inhabitants of Carlisle, to keep from 
amongst them the scourgings of the epidemic. 

"An ordinance of the 18th of September of that year, en- 
acted that no inhabitant should receive into his house or 
family any sick person from Philadelphia or elsewhere, un- 
til after examination by a physician of the borough, and a 

certificate from him that such person was "not infected." 

Men were employed to guard the passes from Philadelphia, 
and stop all wagons entering the town, conducting them 
past the borough "by the commons." A tent was authori- 
zed to be erected at a distance from the borough, for the re- 
ception of individuals supposed to be infected. 

"The funeral bell was ordered not to be tolled, lest it might 
alarm the sick, and an unfortunate negro, who had arrived 
in town from Philadelphia, despite the vigilance of the citi- 
zens, and which he eluded for two days,' had a reward ol 
ten dollars offered for his apprehension, that his body might 
be secured and his clothing buried. 

"The inhabitants were at the same time suffering under a 
disease which they termed the "March miasmata,"* and 
the prevalence of which they attributed to the unhealthy 
condition of Le Lort's spring. Tan-yards and mills were 
attacked, dams declared public nuisances and razed, and the 
channel of the spring dragged and cleansed, to remove the 
stagnant water Irom the adjoining low grounds, and prevent 
its future accumulation. The fever in Philadelphia, and the 
miasma here, shortly afterwards subsided, and with them 
the terror and excitement of the people of Carhsle.— CAar- 
ter, Src of Carlisle. 

In March, 1786, Generals Butler and Parsons, commis- 

• Similar case at Harrisburg, see pa. 233, 245, 246. 



408 HISTORY OF CUMBERLAND COUNY. 

sioners of Indian affairs, and a Seneca chief, Cap. O'Bail, -wilb 
five young men of his nation arrived here. On the 28th, a 
meeting was held in the court-house, where the chief ad- 
dressed Gen. Butler, and to whom he responded.— See Ap- 
pendix, N. 

In December 1787, a fracas occurred between the Con- 
stitutionalists and Anti-Constitutionalists- A number of citi- 
zens from the county assembled on the 26th, to express, in 
their way, aided by the firing of cannons, their feelings on 
the actions of the convention that had assembled to frame 
the constitution of the Uniled States, when they were as- 
saulted by an adverse party : after dealing out blows, they 
dispersed. On Thursday, the 27th, those who had assem- 
bled the day before, met again at the court house, well 
armed with guns and muskets. They, however, proceeded 
without molestation, except that those who had opposed 
them, also assembled, kindled a bonfire and burned several 
effigies. For that temerity, several, styled rioters, were ar- 
rested and snugly lodged in jail. They were, subsequently, 
on a compromise between the Federalists and Democrats, 
liberated. The Federalists were the Constitutionalists. 

In 1794, several thousand troops were assembled at Car- 
lisle, on their way westward to quell the "Whiskey Insur- 
rection." On the 1st of October, the Governor of the State 
arrived at Carlisle, and in the evening delivered an animated 
address in the Presbyterian church. On Saturday the 4th, 
Geo. Washington, President of the United States, accom- 
panied by Secretary Hamilton and his private Secretary, Mr. 
Dandridge, and a large company of soldiers, besides a great 
mass of yeomanry, numbers of the Senate and Houseof Repre- 
sentatives arrived. A line was formed, composed of cavalry 
with sixteen pieces of cannon, vv-ith the infantry from vari- 
ous parts of Pennsylvania, amounting in the whole to near 
3000 men. The court house was illuminated in the evening 
by the Federal citizens, and a transparency exhibited with 
this inscription in front: "Washington is ever triumphant." 
On one side; "The reign of the Laws." On the other: 
"Woe to anarchists." 

On Monday, a number of the principal inhabitants pre- 
sented Washington the following address: 



HISTORY OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY. 409 

To Geoige Washington, Esq., President of the United States. 

Sir: — We, the subscribers, inhabitants of this borough, on behalf 
of ourselves and fellow citizens, friends to good order, government 
and the laws, approach you at this time, to express our sincere admi- 
ration of those virtues which have been uniformly exerted with so 
much success, for the happiness of America; and which, at this criti- 
cal period of impending foreign and domestic troubles, have been 
manifested with distinguished lustre. 

Though we deplore the cause which has collected in this borough 
all classes ot virtuous citizens, yet it affords us the most heartfelt 
satisfaction to meet the father of our country, and brethren in arms, 
distinguished for their patriotism, their love of order, and attachment 
to the constitution and laws; and while on the one hand we regret the 
occasion which has brought from their homes men of all situations, 
who have made sacrifices, unequalled in any other country, of their 
private interests to the public good; yet we are consoled by the con- 
sideration, that the citizens of the United States have evinced to our 
enemies abroad, and the foes of our happy constitution at home, that 
they not only have the will, but possess the power, to repel all foreign 
invaders, and to crush all domestic traitors. 

The history of the world affords us too many instances of the des- 
truction of free governments by factious and unprincipled men. Yet 
the present insurrection and opposition to government is exceeded by 
none, either for its causeless origin, or for the extreme malignity and 
wickedness with which it has been executed. 

The unexampled clemency of our councils in their endeavors to 
bring to a sense of duty the western insurgents, and the ungrateful 
returns which have been made by that deluded people, have united all 
good men in one common effort, to restore order and obedience to the 
laws, and to punish those who have neglected to avail themselves of, 
and have spurned at, the most tender and humane offers that have ever 
been made to rebels and traitors. 

We have viewed with pain the great industry, art, and misrepresen- 
tations which have been practiced, to delude our fellow citizens. We 
trust that the effort of the general government, the combination of the 
good and virtuous against the vicious and factious, will cover with 
cont~usion the malevolent disturbers of the public peace, and afford 
to the well disposed the certainty of protection to their persons and 
property. 

The sword of justice, in the hands of our beloved President, can 
only be considered as as an object of terror by the wicked, and will 
be looked up to by the good and virtuous as their safeguard and pro- 
tection, / 

We bless that Providence which has preserved a life so valuable 
through so many important scenes — and we pray that he will continue 
to direct and prosper the measures adopted by you, for the security of 
our internal peace and stability of our government; and that after a 
life of continued usefulness and glory, you may be rewarded with 
eternal felicity. 

To which he was pleased to return the following answer. 

85 



410 HISTORY OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY. 

Gentlemen : 

I thank you sincerely for your affectionate address. I feel as 1 
ought, what is personal to me, and I cannot but be particularly pleased 
with the enlightened and patriotic attachment which is manifested to- 
wards our happy constitution and the laws. 

When we look around and behold the universally acknowledged 
prosperity which blesses every part of the United States, facts no less 
unequivocal than those which are lamented, occasion our present 
meeting, were necessary to persuade us, that any portion of our fel- 
low citizens could be so deficient in discernment or virtue, as to at- 
tempt to disturb a situation which, instead of murmurs and tumults, 
calls for our warmest gratitude to Heaven, and our earnest endeavors 
to preserve and prolong so favored a lot. 

Let us hope that the delusion cannot be lasting ; that reason will 
speedily regain her empire, and the laws their just authority, where 
they have lost it. Let the wise and virtuous unite their efforts to re- 
claim the misguided, and to detect and defeat the arts of the factious. 
The union of good men is a basis, on which the security of our in- 
ternal peace and stability of our government may safely rest. It will 
always prove an adequate rampart against the vicious and disorderly. 

If in any case, in which it may be indispensable to raise the sword 
of justice against obstinate offenders, I shall deprecate the necessity 
of deviating from a favorite aim, to establish the authority of the laws 
in the affections of all, rather than in the fears of any. 

Geo. W^gHisoTOK. 

"Nothing of special interest has occurred since the Whis- 
key expedition in the town of Carlisle, worthy of particu- 
lar remark; nevertheless, passing, it might be mentioned that 
in the breaking out of the war in 1812, the citizens of Car- 
lisle manifested a commendable zeal in volunteering for the 
defence of our common country. 

Four fine companies were soon raised, viz: The "Carlisle 
Infantry," under Capt. William Alexander, and a "Rifle 
Company," under Capt. George Hendel, served a term of 
six months on the northern frontier. 

The "Carlisle Guards," under Capt. Joseph Halbert, 
marched to Philadelphia, and the " Patriotic Blues," under 
Capt. Jacob Squier, were for some time, in the intrenchments 
at Baltimore." 

During the prevalancy of the cholera in this country, in 
1832, the dwellings of several families were invaded by 
death, under this form. The names of the victims of this 
disease, are Mrs. Holmes, a child of Mrs. Holmes, Susan 
Swartz, Adam Swartz, George Swartz, William Swartz, 
Andrew Jackson Hood, Mrs. Elliott's child, William Curry, 



HISTORY OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY. 411 

Samuel McKira, and others whose names are not now re- 
membered. 

None of these lived more than sixty hours after the first 
attack. 



CHAPTER XXVII. 

Borough of Carlisle. 

Situation— Synopsis of census of 1840— Surrounding country— Public 
buildings— Court house [and county offices— Jail— Market house- 
Town Hall— Common School buildings— Dickinson College and 
Institute— Churches; Presbyterian, Protestant Episcopal, German 
Reformed, Lutheran, Methodist Episcopal, Catholic, Associate Pres- 
byterian, African— Banking House, United Stales Barracks. 

Carlisle, a post town, and the Capitol of Cumberland 
county, is situated in latitude 40 deg. 12 min. north, longi- 
tude 77deg. 10 min. west, on the principal road from Phila- 
delphia to Pittsburg, one hundred and eighteen miles from 
the former, and one hundred and seventy-eight from the lat- 
ter: and eighteen miles south west of Ilarrisburg. Its popu- 
lation in 1830, 3708; 1840,4,350, whereof 2,046 were 
\\2iite males, 1,989 white females, 138 colored males, and 
177 colored females. 

Synopsis of the Census o/ 1840.— White males, under 5, 
223; o and under 10, 240; 10 and under 15, 261; 15 and 
under 20, 322; 20 and under 30, 528; 30 and under 40,174; 
40 and under 50, 135; 50 and under 60, 86; 60 and under 
70, 41; 70 and under 80, 30; 80 and under 90, 6. 

White females, under 5, 245; 5 and under 10, 207; 10 and 
under 15, 245; 15 and under 20, 268; 20 and under 30, 422; 
30 and under 40, 206; 40 and under 50, 178; 50 and under 
60, 110; 60 and under 70, 68; 70 and under 80, 31; 80 and 
under 90, 8; 90 and under 100, 1. 

Colored males, under 10, 30; 10 and under 24, 42; 24 and 



4l2 HISTORY OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY. 

under 36, 39; 36 and under 55, ]9; 55 and under 100, 7; 
100 and upwards, 1. 

Colored females, under 10, 33; 10 and under 24, 74; 24 
and under 36, 47; 36 and under 55, 20; 55 and under 100, 3. 

Of tlie entire population, in 1840, 3 were engaged in rain- 
ing, 124 in agriculture, 75 in commerce, 288 in manufac- 
tures and trades, 33 in navigation of the ocean, 80 of the 
learned professions and engineers, 3 pensioners for revolu- 
tionary services, 2 blind, 3 insane idiots at private charge,! 
at public charge, 135 students. 

The following, by J. S. Gitt, Editor of the Pennsylvania 
Statesman, presents the "local statistics" of the Borougli. 
January 1st, 1846: 

There are in this place, thretj pi inting offices, from which 
the following named papers are issued • The Herald & Ex- 
positor, edited by Mr. Beatty, issued weekly, devoted to the 
cause of the Whigs; the American Volunteer, edited by 
Messrs. Boycrs and Bratton, Democratic; the Pennsylvania 
Statesman, by J. S. Gitt, issued semi-weekly, Dtmocralic. 
The first paper established in this coimty was edited and 
published by Mr. Kline, in 1785, railed "Kline's Carlisle 
Weekly Gazette." 

There are here 10 churches and 12 congregations; 48 
stores, and a number of shops ; 4 ware houses ; 12 physi- 
cians; 3 foundries ; Common Schools sufTicient to suit the 
wants of the j)eopIe. Dickinson College, under the super- 
intendence of the Methodist E. Church, a flourishing insti- 
tution ; a beautifully superb and commodious new Court 
House, with all the necessary county offices, built for ^45,- 
000; 25 shoe establishments; 4 hatter do., 18 tailor do., 2 
tallow chandleries, 2 licensed auction stoies, 7 cabinet ma- 
kers, 16 carpenters, 2 coach-makers, 3 brick-makers, 20 
bricklayers and masons, 2 bread bakeries, 5 cake bakers, 1 
ropewalk, 1 grist mill, 12 taverns, 3 distilleries for yielding 
tlie "liquid fire," would to God there were none, for a great 
deal of the misery of human life which is daily seen raging 
our streets would be prevented; 5 tinners and coppeismiths, 
5 tanners, 6 saddlers, 5 coopers, 2 breweries, 9 butchers, 6 
painters, 3 chairmakers, 11 plasters, 3 dyers, 5 weavers, 2 
silver plates, 1 locksmith, 2 gunsmiths, 1 limeburner, 3 wag- 
onmakers, 3 stone cutters, 14 blacksmiths, 5 watch makers, 
2 barbers, 8 Dentists, 1 clock maker, 3 jewelry shops, 1 ma» 



HISTORY OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY. 413 

trass maker, 2 threshing machine manufactories, 3 board 
yards, 3 livery stables, 2 book binderies, 2 spinning -wheel 
manufactories, 1 brush maker, 2 pump makers, 5 gardeners, 
1 milk dairy, 1 stocking weaver, 2 segar makers, 9 mantua 
makers, 6 milliners, 1 bird stuffiing establishment, 5 music 
teachers, 4 justices of the peace, 12 male school teachers, G 
female school teachers. A large market house, and as good 
a market, for all the luxuries of life, as can be found in any 
inland town of the same size in Pennsylvania. The mem- 
bers of the Bar are numerous, 15 in number, and of the 
highest standing in the profession, as also the professors of 
Medical science. The Gospel Ministers are zealous in the 
cause of their Divine Master; they are "in season and out 
of season," daily ministering in the good work. 

There are numerous societies for the promotion of moral 
and religious instruction, composed of both females and 
males. There are temperance societies, and two Divisions 
of the "Order of the Sons of Temperance" here, laboring 
to restore the unfortunate to the paths of rectitude, sobriety 
and usefulness. Mechanics of every description, almost, are 
to be found here, all busily engaged in their different avo- 
cations. 

There- is about a half mile from town, a military depot 
for recruits of the U. States, constantly preparing for the 
service, by learning the art of war. A detachment of ar- 
tillery are stationed there just now." 

The town is handsomely .situated : the streets are rectan- 
gular, and are all sixty feet wide — except High & Hanover, 
which are in breadth eighty feet. High and Hanover streets 
intersect in the centre of the Borough. Four streets run 
parallel with High street ; Louther and North street, on the 
North; Porafretand South street, on the South. Four streets 
run parallel with Hanover street ; Bedford and East street, 
on the East ; Pitt and West street, on the West. 

In 1760, the commissioners of Cumberland county returned 
to the Assembly, sixty-four lots, in Carlisle, as belonging to 
the Proprietaries, and one hundred and sixteen as held by 
the inhabitants. 

The town and adjacent country are healthy and well wa- 
tered. Le Tort's spring runs along the eastern side of the 
town. It has its source two miles south of it, and empties 
into the Conodogwinet, about three miles northeast of the 

35* 



414 HISTORY OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY. 

borough. Trees have been planted within the last six 
or eight years, which add much to the beauty of the place. 
Through High street runs the Cumberland Valley railroad. 

The Public Buildings. — The court house, now building, 
(Messrs. Bryant and Wilt, of Harrisburg, builders,) diagon- 
ally in the rear from the site of the former, in the west angle 
of the public square, is, as I have been informed, seventy 
feet front, ninety deep, with a colonnade in front, surrounded 
by a cupola, in which, a clock made by Mr. Erb, is to be 
put up. The building, when finished, will cost $45,000. 

The former court house — a brick building — was situated 
on the southwest of the centre square, and had been erected 
about the year 1766. At a later period, the building that 
contained the county offices, was erected. The cupola which 
surmounts the court house, and contained the clock, was ad- 
ded in 1809. The court house, the building occupied by the 
county offices, and the town hall, in 1812, contiguous to the 
court house, were destroyed by fire on the night between the 
L>:]rd and 24th of March, 1845. 

The first courts held in Carlisle, were held, according to 
a letter of John O'Neal, May 27, 1753, "in a temporary 
log building, on the northeast corner of centre square." 

At present the courts are held in the Education Hall, 
on lot No. 99; and the public offices are kept in Beetem's 
Row, north of the Main street, and on the west end of the 
public square. 

Judging from one of the "prints" of the place, much dis- 
satisfaction is manifested from some quarter, as to the court 
house, now building. Dissatisfaction, perhaps better found- 
ed, was also manifested when the former court house was 
about being built — Proof: 

" Pursuant to leave for that purpose, Mr. Allen presented 
to the chair a bill for purchasing a lot, and erecting a court 
house thereon, which being read the first time, was ordered 
to be laid on the table— Feb. 9, 1762. 

" Sundry inhabitants of Cumberland county presented a 
petition, setting forth that the Trustees appointed to erect a 
court house and jail, have not fully answered the end of their 
appointment, praying for the removal of those trustees, and 
the appointment of others" — March 16, 1762. Votes Ass 
V. p. 193 & 209. 

"The jail is a stone building, standing upon the northwest 



HISTORY OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY, 415 

corner of High and Bedford sts. It was erected in 17^4, and 
enlarged in 1790. The citizens of Cumberland county peti- 
tioned the Assembly in 1755 for aid to complete the prison, 
but their application seems to have received no further notice 
from the honorable member than an order ' to lie on the ta- 
ble." In 1754, stocks and a pillory were also erected on 
the square, and remained until that inhuman method of pun- 
ishment was abolished. Some of our old citizens yet remem- 
ber having seen the ears of * cropped' culprits nailed to the 
pillory." — Charter, &c. of Carlisle. 

The Market House is located east of the Court House, 
was built in 1837: and is the third buildinor of the kind 
which has been erected in the borough. It is on that part 
of tiie square, of which Mr. O'Neal, in 1753, says, "a lime 
kiln stands on the centre square, near what is called the 
Deep Quarry, from which is obtained good building stone." 

School Buildings : one of these, a large brick building, 
on Church alley, was formerly the house of worship of the 
Methodist Episcopal Congregation, who conveyed it to the 
" Society of Equal Rights," and by the society it was sold 
to the School Directors. 

It accommodates on the lower floor three Schools. The 
upper is appropriated to exhibitions, lectures, and other pub- 
lic meetings. At present (1845) occupied occasionally to 
hold courts in. 

The other building is in Liberty alley, and was formerly 
used as a college. It was purchased five or six years ago, 
by the School Directors, and accommodates four schools. 

The Common School system is in full operation in Car- 
lisle. The whole number of schools is fifteen, in which are 
taught 520 male and 440 female scholars, at an annual ex- 
pense of f>3,020,76, raised by district tax, and, $804.00, 
State appropriation, making the whole cost of instn.ction 
$3,374,75 ; of fuel $259.00, employing 4 male and 11 fe- 
male teachers The male teachers receive an average salary 
of $25,87 per month, and the females $18.12. The schools 
are open eleven months. They constitute a progressive series, 
in which "the branches are taught from the alphabet to the 
higher studies of an English education." 

l^he Carlisle Female 5^emzwary, under the superintendance 
of Misses Phoebe and Charlotte Paine, in which the higher 
branches are taught, is deservedly popular. 



416 HISTORY OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY. 

Dickinson College. 6f Institute. — The original charter of the 
institution was granted by the Legislature of Pennsylvania, 
in 1783. By that instrument it was determined — "that in 
memory of the great and important services rendered to his 
country, by his Excellency, John Dickinson, Esquire, Presi- 
dent of the Supreme Executive Council, and in commemor- 
tion of his very liberal donation to the institution, the said 
college, shall be forever hereafter called and known by the 
name of Dickinson College." 

The Faculty was first organizeil in 1784, by the election 
of the Rev. Charles Nisbet, D. D., of Montrose, Scotland, 
as President, and the appointment of Mr. James Ross, as 
Professor of Languages; to whom were added in the fol- 
lowing year, the Rev. Robert Davidson, D- D., as Professor 
of Belles Lettres, and Mr. Robert Johnston, Instructor in 
Mathematics. The college, under the administration of Dr. 
Nisbet, flourished, as much perhaps, as the times would 
allow. 

In 1798, the spot now occupied by the college buildings, 
between High and Louther street and west of West street, 
was selected, and the first edifice erected and ready for use 
in 1802. The edifice was destroyed by fire in 1804, but the 
trustees proceeded to erect another, which was completed in 
September, 1805, and is now known as the west college. — 
Before the completion of this building, the college sustain- 
ed a heavy loss in the death of Dr. Nisbet, which occurred 
on the 14th of February, 1804. The office of Presi«Jenl 
was exercised pro tempore by Dr. Davidson, until, in 1809, 
the Rev. Jeremiah Atwater, D. D., was elected to fill the 
vacancy. The institution was prosperous under his direc- 
tion, and the class of 1812 was the largest that had gradu- 
ated for twenty years. In 1815, President Atwater resign- 
ed, and the following year the operations of the college were 
suspended, and were not renewed till 1821. In that year, 
the Rev. John M. Mason, D. D., was called to preside over 
the institution, and during the first part of his administration 
there was a considerable influx of students; but previously 
to his resignation, which took place May 1, 1824, the col- 
lege began to decline, and continued to languish, except for 
brief intervals, while under the presidency of Drs. Neill, 
and Howe, until 1832, when the trustees determined that 
the operations of the institution should cease. 



HISTORY OF CUMfERLAND COUNT!'. 4J7 

In 1833, the control and direction of the college was 
transferred to the Baltimore, Philadelphia, and New Jersey 
Annual Conferences of the Methdist Episcopal Church, by 
the resignation, from time to time, of some of the trustees, 
and by the election of others, named by the said conferences, 
in their stead, until finally a complete change was effected in 
the management of the institution. J3y this change the col- 
lege took a fresh start, and the organization of the faculty 
was commenced by the election of the Rev. John P. Dur- 
bin as President, and the establishment of a Law Depart- 
ment, under the charge of the Hon. John Reed. About the 
same time, a Grammar school was opened, under the direc- 
tion of Mr. Alexander F. Dobb. On the 10th of May, 
1834. Merrilt Caldwell, A. M., was chosen Professor of the 
Exact Sciences, and Robert Emory, A. M., Profes.'^or of An- 
cient Languages. 

The requisite funds having been obtained, (he grounds 
improved, the buildings repaired, and an important alteration 
affected in the charter, the operations of the college com- 
menced again by the inductions into office, on the'lOth of 
September, 1834, of the President and two professors elect, 
and by the admission of twenty students, there being at the 
same time about seventy pupils in the grammar school. On 
the 18th of July, 1837, the faculty was enlarged, by the 
addition of the Rev. John JVTcClintock, A. M., as Professor 
of Mathematics, and William H. Allen, A. M., as Professor 
of Natural Science. Since this period, several changes have 
occured in the board of instruction.— Professor Emory having 
resigned. Professor McClintock assumed his duties, and in 
July, 1840, Colonel Thomas E. Sudler, A. M., was called 
to fill the chair of Mathematics, vacated by Professor Mc- 
Clintock. "^ 

Mr. Dobb was succeeded in the charge of the grammar 
school by the Rev. Stephen A. Rossel, A. M., who occupied 
the station several years, assisted by John L. Carey, A.M., 
Rev. John F. Hey, and the Rev. James Bunting. After the 
resignatiou of these gentlemen, the Rev. Levi Scott, A. M. 
was chosen Principal, and the Rev. Thomas Bowman, A, M. 
assistant, under whose efficient management the school still 
continues. Dickinson College, under the auspices of the 
Methodist Episcopal church, and under the direction of its 
able faculty, has hitherto been prosperous, and bids fair to 



418 HISTORY or CUMBERLAND COUNTY. 

realize the hopes of its early founders. A new and commo- 
dious edifice has been erected for the accommodation of the 
faculty and students, and a suitable building for the use of 
the grammar school, called Dickinson Institute. A large ad- 
dition has been made to the libraries, to the chemical and 
philosophical apparatus, and to the mineralogical cabinet. 
The number of students has gradually increased, and at this 
time there in the college proper 107, in the grammar school 
40. Total 147. The Board of Instruction is as follows : 

Rev. Robert Emory, A. M., President, and Professor of 
Moral Philosophy. 

Merrit Caldwell, A. M., Professor of Metaphysics and 
Political Economy. 

William H. Allen, A. M., Professor of Chemistry and Na- 
tural Philosophy. 

Rev. John McClintock, A. M., Professor of Languages. 

Thomas E. Sudler, A. M., Professor of Mathematics and 
(•ivil Engineering. 

Hon. John Reed, LL. D., Professor of Law. 

Spencer F. Baird, A. M., Professor of Natural History 
and Curator of the Mi.seum. 

Rev. George R. Crooks, A. M., Principal of the Grammar 
School. 

.Fohn K. Stayman, A. M., Assistant. 

Edward L. Walker, Professor of Music. 

The course of study is liberal and thorough; perhaps equal 
to any other in this country. 

Terms of admission to the Collegiate Department. 

Candidates for admission to the Freshman Class, must be 
well acquainted with Arithmetic; Geography, Outlines of 
Ancient and Modern History ; the English, Latin and Greek 
Grammars; Caesar's Commentaries; Virgil's iEneid ; Cice- 
ro's Select Orations ; Roman Antiquities and Mythology ; 
Jacob's Greek Reader, and the Historical Books of the New 
Testament. 

Candidates for any other class will be examined on the 
studies previously pursued by such class. 

Candidates for a partial course will be examined only as 
to their qualifications to pursue such a course. 

It is particularly recommended, however, that all, whose 
circumstances will justify it, should prosecute the full course 



HISTORY OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY. 419 

of study, being that which long experience has proved to be 
best suited to accomplish the great end of education — the 
developing and disciplining of the mind. 

The character of a student's preparation for admission will 
materially affect the whole of his subsequent course, as many 
of the elementary studies cannot receive that attention in 
college, which their prime importance demands. It is ear- 
nestly desired, therefore, that candidates will adhere ligidly 
to the course of preparatory studies here prescribed, and that 
they will rather endeavor to perfect themselves in these, thau 
anticipate studies which can be pursued to much greater ad- 
vantage in college. It is, in general, poor economy, to at- 
tempt to prepare for admission into one of the higher classes; 
as it is reasonable to suppose that, with the faciUties afforded 
at college, students will be advanced there, more rapidly and 
thoroughly,- than they could be by teachers less favorably 
situated. The Grammar School of the institution presents 
peculiar advantages to those who wish to be thoroughly pre- 
pared for admission. 

No one will be admitted to the Freshman Class, until he 
has completed his fourteenth year, nor to a higher class with- 
out a corresponding increase of age. And it is very desira- 
ble that the candidates should be still older, that ihey thus 
may be fitted, by greater maturity of mind and stability of 
character, better to appreciate the studies of their course, 
and to exercise that self-control, which is necessary for every 
college student. 

All candidates for admission must produce testimonials of 
good moral character ; and if from another college, a certifi- 
cate of honorable dismission. They may present themselves 
for examination, at any time; but it is particularly desired, 
that they do so either at the commencement of a session, or 
during the week after Christmas. 

Annual Expenses.— Co//eo-e Fees— The College bills are 
to be paid to the Treasurer in advance, per session : and are 
as follows, viz : Tuition fee, first session, $20,00 ; second 
session, $13,00. Room rent, 1st ses. $3,00; 2d, ses. $2,00. 
Warming and use of recitation rooms, 1st ses. $2,00 ; 2nd 
ses. $1,00. Printing, 1st ses. 75 cts.; 2d ses. 25 cts.^ To- 
tal amount, first session, $27,75 ; second session, $16,25. 

Libraries. — The College Library contains about 3,800 
vols. The Belles-Lettres 4,500 vols. The Union Philoso- 



420 HISTORY OF CUMBERLAND COUNY. 

phical 3,700 vols. Total, 12,000 vols. All of these are 
accessible to every student. 

Religious Instruction. Prayers, with reading of the Scrip- 
tures, are attended in the chapel, on the morning and even- 
ing of every day, except Saturday and Sunday, when the 
evening service is omitted. The students are also required 
to attend public worship twice on the Sabbath — in the morn- 
ing, at such church, always, as their parents or guardians 
may designate in writing. 

Terms and Vacations. — The collegiate year is divided in- 
to two sessions. 

The first, beginning on the 15th of September, and end- 
ing on the Friday before the first of April; the second, be- 
ginning at the termination of the first, and ending at Com- 
mencement, on the second Tuesday in July. The only regu- 
lar vacation, then, is the interval from Commencement till 
the 15th of September; to which may be added, at the dis- 
cretion of the Faculty, a few days recess at Christmas, and 
at the end of the first session. 

The government of the institution is strictly parental. It 
is designed to secure attention to study, and correctness of 
deportment, not so much by the enforcement of rigid enact- 
ments, as by cultivating in the student, a taste for intellec- 
tual pursuits, and virtuous habits. But while youthful in- 
discretion will be treated with lenity, it is resolved that in- 
curable indolence, bad morals, and pecuniary extravagance, 
shall not be suffered to remain to exert their corrupting in- 
fluence within the walls 

A faithful record is kept of the standing of each student, 
and a report of it is sent monthly to his parent or guardian. 

For the benefit of indigent students, it has been provided, 
that in cases where the Faculty are satisfied that a student 
of approved character is unable to pay his tuition money, the 
Treasurer may take his note or bond for it, which shall not 
bear interest until two years after his leaving College, and 
shall never be put in suit." 

Presbyterian Churches. — Upwards of a century ago, the 
Presbyterians built a log church on the Conodogwinet creek, 
at a place now called the " Meeting-house Springs." The 
first pastor was the Rev. Samuel Thompson. No vestige of 
this building now remains. In the burying ground are to be 
seen several grave-stones emblazoned with coats of arms. 



HISTORY OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY. 421 

Shortly after Carlisle was laid out, a Presbyterian congrega- 
tion was organized in it. A church was built,* and George 
Duffield, D. D., ordained pastor in 1761. About 1760, a 
license was obtained from Governor Hamilton, authorizing 
the congregation to raise by lottery " a small sum of money 
to enable them to build a decent house for the worship of 
God," and in 1766, the minister and others petitioned the 
Assembly for the passage of an act to compel the " managers 
to settle," and the "adventurers to pay;" the settlement of 
the lottery having been for a "considerable time deferred" by 
reason of the " confusions occasioned by the Indian wars." 
The act prayed for was passed. 

A short time afterwards, the congregation in the country, 
then under the care of the Rev. Mr. Steele, constructed a 
two story house of worship in town ; and some time before 
the Revolution erected the present First Presbyterian church, 
on the northwest corner of the centre square. The two church 
parties differed somewhat in doctrinal views, and were called 
the "Old Lights" and "New Lights." Mr. Duffield's con- 
gation erected a gallery in Mr. Steele's church, and the two 
parties worshipped separately. After the removal of Mr. 
Duffield to Philadelphia, and the death of Mr. Steele, the 
two congregations united, and called, in 1785, the Reverend 
Robert Davidson. 

By act of Assembly of 1786, the congregation thus united 
was incorporated. 

In 1833, a portion of the congregation, by reason of a 
doctrinal dispute, organized another congregation, and wor- 
shipped in the County-hall till 1834, when they built the 
Second Presbyterian church, on the corner of South Hano- 
ver and Pomfret streets. The new congregation was incor- 
porated in the latter year. 

St. John's Church. — The church edifice is situated on the 
northeast corner of the public square. Its corner stone was 
laid in 1825. 

*Extract of a letter from John Armstrong to Richard Peters, 

Carlisle, 30 June, 1757. 
To-morrow we begin to haul stones for the building of a meeting 
house on the north side of the square ; there was no other convenient 
place. I have avoided the place you once pitched for a church. The 
stones are raised out of Colonel Stanwix's entrenchment, we will want 
help in this political as well as religious workJ 

36 



422 HISTORY OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY. 

Robert Callender, George Croghan, Thomas Smallman & 
Thomas Butler, presented to the Assembly, in 1765, a peti- 
tion in behalf of the " members oi the church ot England in 
Cumberland county," representing that they had " in part 
erected a church in Carlisle, wherein to worship Almighty 
God ; but from the smallness of their number, and distressed 
state of the country consequent upon the Indian wars," they 
were unable to finish it, and praying the house to consider 
their condition and grant them such relief as they in their 
wisdom should deem meet. The same year an act was passed 
authorizing them to raise a sufficient sum for the desired pur- 
pose by lottery; but whether they availed themselves of it, 
does not appear. The church then erected stood until the 
present one was built near the same spot. 

An itinerant missionary for the counties of York and Cum- 
berland, was maintained by the " Society for the propagation 
of the Gospel in foreign parts," for several years after these 
counties were founded. This office, as late as 1766, was 
held by the Rev. William Thomson, son of the first Presby- 
terian pastor at the " Meeting-house Springs." 

German Reformed and Evangelical Lutheran Churches. 
— The German Reformed and Evangelical Lutheran congre- 
gations, were organized about 1765 ; the latter under the 
pastoral care of the Rev. Mr. Butler. They worshipped on 
alternate sabbaths in the same church, — which stood on the 
present German Reformed burying ground, — until 1807, 
when each congregation erected a house of worship for its 
own use. The Lutherans built theirs on the corner of Lou- 
ther and Bedford streets. It is their present place of wor- 
ship. Their church was incorporated in 1811. 

The German Reformed church was located on the lot now 
occupied by the Preparatory school building of Dickinson 
College. Having sold it, they built, in 1827, a church at 
the corner of High and Pitt streets, which they afterwards 
sold to the Methodist Episcopal congregation, and in 1835 
erected the one which they now occupy in Louther street. 
They were incorporated in 1811. 

Metlwdist Episcopal Church. — Soon after the Revolution, 
the Methodist ministers commenced their labors in Carlisle, 
worshipping first in the market-place, then in the court 
house, and subsequently in a small building in Pomfret street, 
in which last place they formed a class of about 12 members, 



HISTORY OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY. 423 

in 1792 or 1793. Their number increased, and in a few- 
years afterward they built a small stone house in Pitt street, 
in which they worshipped a short time, and then erected a 
brick edifice in Church alley. Having sold this in 1835, they 
purchased from the German Reformed congregation the stone 
church on the corner of Pitt and High streets, which they 
have much improved and beautified. In this they now wor- 
ship. The congregation was incorporated in 1838. 

Roman Catholic Church. — This edifice is built in the fig- 
ure of a cross. Its location is on Pomfret street. It was 
erected in 1807, and enlarged in 1823. The lot upon which 
it stands was at an early day owned by the Jesuits of Cone- 
wago, who had upon it a small log church, in which the 
Roman Catholic congregation worshipped until the present 
one was built. 

Associate Presbyterian Church. — The Associate Presby- 
terian congregation of Carlisle was organized in 1798. The 
lot on West street, upon which the church is built, was con- 
veyed, in consideration of £6, by the Messrs. Penns, in 179B, 
to Wm. iBlair, Wm. Moore, John Smith, and John McCoy, 
trustees of the Associate Presbyterian congregation, adher- 
ing to the subordination of the Associate Presbytery of Penn- 
sylvania, of which the Rev. John Marshall & James Clark- 
son were then members. The building was put up in 1802, 
and the Rev. Francis Pringle, their first pastor, called the 
same year. 

African Churches. — These are situated, two in Locust 
alley, and the third in Pomfret street. 

United States Barracks. — The barracks are located about 
one-half mile from the town, but within the borough limits. 
They were built in 1777. The workmen employed were 
Hessians captured at Trenton. The barracks will garrison 
2000 men. A school of cavalry practice has recently been 
estabhshed at them, by the Government, and the buildings 
handsomely fitted up under the direction of Capt. E. V. Sum- 
ner, commanding the post. 

The Carlisle Bank. — The Banking-house stands on North 
Hanover street, near the public square. The institution was 
governed by thirteen directors, and had a capital paid in of 
.1^230,000. Business hours from 9 A. M. till 2 P. M. ; and 
discount day Tuesday. The charter of the Bank expired 
in 1845. 



CHAPTER XXVIII. 

BOROUGHS, TOWNS, AND VILLAGES. 

Shippensburg, Newville, Stoughstown, Newburgh, Springfield, Centre- 
ville, Smoketown, Papertown, Mecharicsburg, Trindle Spring, 
Hogueslown, Kingston, Lisburn, Churchtown, Worleystown, Shep- 
perdstown,Centre Square, Shiremanstown, New Cumberland, Bridge 
Port, Wormleysburg, Fairview, Whitehill, Milltown, Frogstown' 
Sporting Hill. 

Shippensburg, the. oldest town, except Yoik, west of the 
Susquehanna river, in Pennsylvania, is a post town and bor- 
ough, situated on the western boundary of this county, twen- 
ty-one miles south west of Carlisle. It is surrounded by a 
fertile, limestone country, well improved, and now principal- 
ly cultivated by Germans, though originally wholly settled 
by Irish, a few of whose worthy descendants still occupy the 
farms of their forefathers, the first pioneers of the country. 

When Cumberland was first organized, 1750, the Courts 
were held here ; and when removed to Carlisle, a great ex- 
citement was produced, by reason of the removal of the 
courts, throughout the upper part of the county. In 1755, 
the government commenced erecting a fort in this place. — 
During the French and Indian war, two forts. Fort Morris 
and Fort Franklin were erected ; the remains of one of these 
were, until lately, still to be seen. The incidents in the early^ 
history of this place, are replete with thrilling interest; many 
of which have already been noticed in the preceding part of 
this compilation. 

In addition to these, the following letters, relating to m- 
cidents and facts, of days gone by, are4iere introduced. 

In the spring of 1755, Richard Peters, Secretary, was in 
Shippensburg, on business connected with the opening of the 
road from Carlisle westward to Youghieghany, and while 
here, wrote the following letter to Governor Hunter. 

Shippensburg, 18th May, 1755. 
Sir— I desired to John Armstrong to write to you ; and as he is per- 



HISTORY OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY. 425 

lectly acquainted with the -whole affair of the roads, his information 
and sentiments will be sufficient for you to proceed upon. Perhaps a 
new commission will not be necessary, and may breed contention. I 
may send an express, if necessary, alter seeing one on the spot, or at 
least send a letter to Carlisle to go by the next post. 

I hear one half of the horses from the county of York are poor and 
unfit for service and will be rejected. 

Mr. John St. Clair went to discover a new road, but finding none, 
returned to the General (Braddock at Fort Cumberland,!, d. h.); they 
concluded to take the old road to the Meadows. 

I shall not wait on the General till I have settled the matter of the 
roads. It will take me three days at least. 

I hear but a poor account of the Indians of this province. Mr. 
Callender says he metJMr. Gist in his return from Carolina, and he 
brings an account that four or five hundren Southern Indians will en- 
gage with and assist General Braddock, but I doubt it. 

P. S. I am at a loss how a letter will find me. I believe the Camp 
is the likeliest place, where I suppose to be sometime this week, and 
to stay il convenient. 

Mr. Charles Swaine, wrote Governor Morris, 

Shippensburg, June 14th, 1755. 
May it please your Honor : 

I arrived at this place on Monday, and judge there are sufficient 
buildings for storing the provisions without erecting any; these will 
want but a small repair, except the fastings, and to be had on easy 
terms, as they are all left to be possessed by anyone who will inhabit 
them. The owners do not seem inclined to take any advantage of 
their being wanted on this occasion. 1 find not above two pastures 
here ; those but mean as to grass, from drought; but there is a fine 
range of forage for upwards of four miles in the woods, quite to the 
foot of the South mountain ; also a good run of water, that the cattle 
will be continually improving after they come here; I shall use the 
methods practiced here for k-eeping their beasts together; have a con- 
stant watch on them ; daily see them myself. I can find but little 
cellaring here, for securing the pork, but have pitched on a shady and 
dry spot in the woods for making a cellar, for, what I cannot store in 
such cellars as are in the town. There are no bricks here, and little 
lime at present, so the making ovens would be difficult, and if made of 
clay, then there would be some iron work wanting. But if his Ex- 
cellency has ordered bread, as I mentioned in my former letter, I be- 
lieve it may be contracted for in Lancaster county. 

The principal expense which seems to attend the Magazine here, 
will be the hire of some persons to attend the cattle, also to watch the 
stores and pork, for ihey assured me there are many ill disposed per- 
sons in these parts, who would both take the pork andTjreak into the 
stores, if not watched. I shall act with the greatest prudence and re- 
gard as to the expense, in this, or any other part of my commission, 
and in taking care to make no further expense than what is immedi- 
ately necessary. Quarter Master Lesley* called on me yesterday and 

* Mr. Lesley was Assistant Commissary to Sir John St. Clair, Depu- 
ty Quarter Master General under Gen. Edward Braddock. Mr. Mat. 
thew Lesley was vaynded, on the 9th July, 1755, at Braddock's defeat. 



426 HISTORY OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY. 

informed me ihat he had seen Scott, the miller, who advised him to ac- 
quaint me thai he had brought up almost as much wheat as to make 
the flour I should want. The coopers in these parts have plantations, 
and they but occasionally work at their trades, have at present but few 
staves by them, those thin and green, and it would take up a consid- 
erable time to procure any quantity. The mills also here have no 
bolting cloths, so that they make only a coarse flour. I can hear no- 
thing as to the express, any more than that he is arrived at the camp; 
but I propose, if I do not see him to-day, to return towards Lancaster, in 
hopes to find your Honor's orders, and also give an account of the 
post of what is done to the flour. 

In another letter, dated July 4, 1755, Mr. Shippen says, 
" I shall give orders to Mr. Burd's servant, a cooper, to 
take charge of some cattle, as Mr. Swaine shall direct ; the 
cattle are provided with a range of pasture. But the place 
which shall be agreed on by the General (Braddock) for the 
magazine, ought to be protected by at least 20 or 30 soldiers; 
and there should be a blockade built ; otherwise they may 
easily destroy the cattle, for they (the Indians) can march 
through the woods undiscovered, within twenty miles of 
Shippensburg ; and they may come these twenty miles, one 
way, on a path, leaving Jacob Pyatt's, near Tuscarora moun- 
tain, on the right hand, and see but two houses, till they are 
•within two miles of my place." 

After General Braddock's defeat. Col. Dunbar, after stay- 
ing some time with his army on the frontiers, received orders 
from Gen. Shirley, upon whom the command of the Ameri- 
can forces devolved, on the death of Braddock, to repair 
with his men to Albany. Previously, however. Col. Dun- 
bar requested a conference with Governor Morris, at Ship- 
pensburg. The Governor addressed him a letter, to which 
the Oolonel replied, as follows : 

Shippensburg, August 17, 1755. 

Sir; — I had the favor of your letter by the express that brought me 
General Shirley's orders. The condition, both officers and soldiers 
are in, makes it absolutely necessary to repair many deficiencies, be- 
fore we proceed on such a march, or voyage, as you will see us in 
about twelve days. I will say no more on that head. 

We have not half the tents we should have — we should have shoes, 
shirts, stockings, camp kettles : and flasks are iew. Every thing ta- 
ken to the place of action is absolutely lost. Neither oflicer nor sol- 
dier saved more than was on their backs — more than half the arm> 
are lost.— Prov. Rec. N. 203. 

James Burd writes to Ed. Shippen, at Lancaster, Nov. 22, 



HISTORY OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY. 427 

1755. " We, for these tMo days past, have been working 
at our Fort here, and believe we shall work this day (Sun- 
day). This town is full of people." (See p. 92.) 

Many of the frontier settlers, in their flight for life, from 
the Indians, took refuge here. In July, 1763, there were 
here, one thousand three hundred and eighty-four, of those 
poor, distressed inhabitants. Of these, three hundred and 
one were male adults, three hundred and forty-five women, 
and seven hundred and thirty-eight children ; many of whon'i 
were obliged to lie in stables, barns, cellars, and under old, 
leaky sheds ; the dwelling houses being all crowded (p. 142)! 
Tho inhabitants were kept in constant alarm for eight or ten 
years, not knowing at what moment they would be surprised 
by a blood-thirsty enemv. 

" The 19th of March, 1764, the Indians carried off five 
people from within nine miles of Shippensburg, and shot one 
man through the body. The enemy, supposed to be eleven 
m number, were pursued successfully by about one hundred 
provincials. The houses of John Stewart, Adam Simms, 
James M'Cammon, William Baird, James Kelly, Stephen 
Caldwell and John Boyd, were burnt. These people lost 
all their grain, which they had thrashed out, with the inten- 
tion to send it, for safety, further down among the inhabit- 
ants."— GorcZon'^- His. Pa. p. 624. 

Shippensburg was once an exceedingly brisk place, made 
so by hundreds of wagons stopping here on their way to, 
and from Pittsburg, and Philadelphia ; but since the railroad 
has been in successful operation, wagoning, through this 
place, has measureably ceased ; and, Shippensburg, feels the 
effects ; but owing to its peculiar locality, will always com- 
mand a reasonable share of business. A number of houses 
have lately been erected in this ancient town. At present it 
contains nearly three hundred dwellings. 

The town was incorporated, January 21, 1819. The pop- 
ulation in 1810, was 1,159 ; in 1820, 1,410; in 1830, 1,308- 
m 1840, 1,473; at present (1845) about 1,525. It contains 
eighteen stores, several taverns, one printing office, from 
which a weekly paper is issued, entitled 'The Weekly News,' 
edited by Mr. J. L. Baker. The churches are, Presbyterian, 
Associate Reformed, Lutheran and German Reformed, Union 
Bethel, Catholic, Methodist, and an African church. In 
1844, there were six schools, with upwards of three hundred 



428 HISTORY OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY. 

scholars in the Borough. The Cumberland Valley railroad 
passes through this place ; also a turnpike. McMean's run, 
a branch of the Conodogwinet creek passes through the town, 
and turns several mills. 

Newvilee, a post town and borough, in Newton town- 
ship, on Spring creek, twelve miles from Carlisle, in the 
northwest part ot the county, within half a mile (north) of 
the Cumberland Valley railroad. It is a place of some con- 
sideiable business ; it contains about one hundred dwellings, 
several mills, taveins and churches, viz : one Presbyterian, 
one Seceder, and Lutheran. The town was incorporated by 
an act of the Legislature, 26th February, 1817 ; and accord- 
ing to the census of 1840, its population was 564, and con- 
tained six stores and three taverns. There are three public 
schools in the borough, with about one hundred and fifty 
scholars, supported at an expense of $441,04, paid to teach- 
ers, and $38,58 for fuel. 

Stoughstown, a post village, in Newton township, on 
the turnpike road leading from Carlisle to Chambersburg, 
near the eastern boundary of the township, fourteen miles 
west of Carlisle, and seven east of Shippensburg, contains 
twelve or fifteen dwellings, one store and a tavern, kept for 
many years by the late Colonel Stougb, and by his son at 
present. Near this place is a large spring, from which a fine 
mill stream issues. 

Newburgh, a post village in Hopewell township, laid out 
some twenty or more years ago by Mr. Trimble, contains 
twenty or more dwellings, two stores and a tavern. 

Springfield. — This village derives its name from a large 
spring, that throws out a volume of water sufficient to turn 
several mill wheels, within a few rods of the spring, and 
forms a considerable stream, having its banks studded with 
mills. It is fourteen miles southwest of Carlisle, and con- 
tains about fifty dwellings, a store, a tavern and school house. 
The situation and vicinity are very romantic. The inhabit- 
ants are distinguished for industry. 

Centreville, is a small village on the Walnut Bottom 
road, leading from Carlisle to Shippensburg, and is in a well 
improved, fertile region of country; it contains a store and 
tavern. 

Smoketown, on the road leading from Carlisle to New- 
ville, consists of a few houses. 



HISTORY OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY. 429 

Papertown, south of Carlisle, on the Carlisle and Hano- 
ver turnpike, laid out some years ago by Barber & Mullen, 
owners of an extensive paper mill, at this place. 

Mechanicsburg, post town and borough, situated in Sil- 
ver Spring township, in the heart of the most fertile and 
best improved regions of Cumberland Valley, on the Trin- 
dle Spring road leading from Harrisburg to Carlisle, eight 
miles from the former and ten from the latter ; it is next to 
Carlisle and Shippensburg, one of the most flourishing towns 
in this county; its local advantages are many, being accessi- 
ble, and intersected by well improved roads, from various 
sections of the country ; the surrounding vicinage is densely 
settled, and the population in general distinguished for their 
indu:?try. As a place of business, it is one of no ordinary 
importance. The town is of comparatively recent origin. — 
Forty years ago the greater part of the site of the town was 
covered with woods; a few straggling houses were to be 
seen, of which only one or two of the first remain. 

It is not more than thirty years since the first brick house 
was erected in the place. This was built in the western part 
of the town, by Lewis Zearing, Esq., shortly after the late 
war. A number of houses had been erected before any lots 
were regularly laid out. About twenty-five years ago, John 
Gosweiler, laid out a number of lots in the eastern part of 
the town, where soon some six or eight houses were erected. 
In the year 1828, Henry Stouffer laid out some lots in the 
central part of the town ; and a new impetus was given to 
the place; a number of dwellings were erected. In 1829, 
'30, and 31, between twenty and thirty houses were put up. 
In December 1831, Major Henry Lease and David Breni- 
zer, having purchased eight or ten acres from George Stein- 
bring, laid out thirty-three lots on the south side of Main 
street. From that time forward the town has gtadually in- 
creased, till it numbers at present (1845) one hundred and 
thirty-three comfortable dwellings, whereof 41 are of bricks, 
67 frame, and 25 plastered ; a number of mechanics shops, 
four churches, viz : a Union Church, Methodist, Lutheran, 
and another, styled a '' Union Bethel," a commodious school 
house in which three public schools are taught, 6 stores, 2 
apothecaries, 3 taverns, 3 ware or store houses on the rail 
road, 4 tailor shops, 2 milhners, 3 mantua makers, 2 hatters, 
4 shoe makers, 3 saddlers, 4 cabinet makers, 4 carpenters, 



430 HISTORY OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY. 

3 weavers, 1 silk dyer, 2 tinners, 2 chair makers, 1 painter, 
1 cooper, 2 coachmakers, 3 blacksmiths, 3 butchers, a foun- 
dry and machine shop, with a population rising ol 800. In 
1830 the population was 554, in 1840, 670. 

The Cumberland Valley Railroad passes through the bo- 
rough, north of Main street. The town was incorporated 
as a borough, by an act passed April 12, 1828. In pursu- 
ance of which, a Burgess and Town Council were elected, 
of which Lewis Zearing, Esq., was President, and Dr. Jacob 
Baughman, clerk. 

Sometime in 1835 or '36 Dr. Jacob Weaver, established 
the first printing office in the place. He edited and pub- 
lished a spirited, literary paper, entitled, " The Microcosm," 
but for the want of adequate patronage, it was suspended ; 
and shortly afterwards, A. F. Cox, commenced the publica- 
tion ot " The School Visitor." This shared the fate of its 
predecessor. Lately, another paper has been started by Mr. 
Sprigraan, entitled " The Independent Press." 

Trindle Spring, one mile west of Mechanicsburg, is 
named after one Trindle, an early settler. Here is a cluster 
ot houses, a tavern, a tan yard, and a church contiguous. — 
The church is a neat brick building held in common by the 
German Reformed and Lutherans. 

RoxBERRY, partly in Silver Spring ; but principally in 
Monroe township, is a small village, consisting of "a long 
string" of houses, along the road leading from Mechanics- 
burg to Carlisle, seven miles east of the latter place. There are 
here sixteen dwellings, and several mechanics' shops, situated 
in a rocky place. Paul Reamer, about thirty years ago, 
erected the hrst house. 

HoGUESTOWN, a post village, in Silver Spring township, 
is nine miles west of Harrisburg, on the turnpike road lead- 
ing to Carlisle ; it is a handsomely situated village in a fer- 
tile and well improved limestone country, and contains be- 
tween twenty and thirty dwellings (a few of which are ot 
brick) including those contiguous, two stores, three taverns, 
a school house, an extensive tannery, several mechanics' 
shops. A small stream called Hogues run flows hard by 
the village and empties into the Conodogwinet creek not 
far off. 

Middlesex, in Northmiddleton township, on the turnpike 
road from Harrisburg to Carlisle, at or near the confluence 



HISTORY OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY. 431 

of Le Tort's creek with the Conodogwinet, three miles east 
of Carhsle, is a cluster of houses, consisting of 11 dwellings, 
in one of which a tavern is kept ; a grtst mill, a saw mill, 
and plaster and oil mill, a woollen factory, principally owned 
by Charles B. Penrose, Esq. There is also a small store 
here. 

Mrs. Murphy, who died at the age of 100, in 1803, re- 
membered that the first " Indian track" to go westward was 
to cross at Simpson's Ferry, four miles below Harris's, then 
across Conodogwinet, at Middlesex, thence up the mountain 
across Croghan's. (Sterret's Gap,) thence down the mountain 
and across Shearman's creek, at Gibson's, thence by Dick's 
Gap, thence by Shearman's valley by Concord, to the burnt 
cabbins, thence to the west of the Alleghany. — Watson's 
Annals, ii. 122. 

There were several paths westward. John Harris, who 
had been westward prior to 1754, notices the following 
points, with the intermediate distances. 

"From my Ferry to Geo. Croghad's, 5 miles; to Kittatin- 
ny mountains 9; to Andrew Montour's o; Tuscarora hill 9; 
Thos. Mitchell's sleeping place 3 ; Tuscarora 14 ; Cove 
spring 10 ; Shadow of Death 8 ; Black Log 3 — 66 miles to 
this point. The road forks to Raystown and Frankstown ; 
we continued to Raystown. To the Three Springs lO; Sid- 
ling Hill Gap 8 ; Juniata hill 8 ; Crossings at Juniata 8 : 
Snake's spring 8; Raystown 4; Shawana cabins 8; Alleghany 
hill 6; Edmunds swamp 8; Stoney creek 6; Kicheney Paulin's 
house (Indian) 6; Clearfields 7; to the other side of Laurel 
hill 5; Loyal Hanning 6; Big Bottom 8 ; Chestnut ridge 8 ; 
to the parting of the roads 4; thence one road leads to Shan- 
oppintovvn, the other to Kiscomenettas Old Town — To Big 
Lick 3; Beaver dams <5; James Dunning's sleeping place 8; 
Cockeye's cabin 8; Four mile run 11; Shanoppintown on Al- 
legheny river 4; to Logstown down the river 18; distance by 
the old road 246 miles." 

" Now beginning at the Black Log — Frankstown road to 
Aughwick 6, Jack Armstrong's Narrows (so called from his 
being murdered here) 8, Standing Stone (about 14 feet high 
and 6 inches square) 10 : At each of the last places we cross- 
ed Juniata — the next and last crossing of Juniata 8, Branch 
of Juniata 10, Big Lick 10, Frank's (Stephen's) town 5, 
Beaver dams 10, Alleghany hill 4, Clearfield's 6, John 



432 HISTORY OF CUMBERLAND COUNY. 

Hart's sleeping place 12, Shawanese cabins 24, Shaver's 
sleeping place at two large licks 12, Eighteen mile run 12, 
Ten mile Lick 6, to*Kiscomenettas town on the creek which 
runs into the Alleghany river six miles down, almost as large 
as Schuylkill 10, Chartier's landing on Alleghany 8, &c." 

COMFILER. 

Kingston, a post village in Silver Spring township, on 
the turnpike road from Harrisburg to Carlisle, six miles from 
the latter and ten from the former, is situated in the heart of 
a well improved, fertile country; and consists of twenty dwel- 
lings, two stores, two churches, one Lutheran, and one held 
by the Evangelical Association, and the usual number of 
handicraft found in country villages. The town receives a 
supply of water conducted in pipes, a distance of 1100 feet, 
from a spring or well on Peter Kissinger's farm. The village 
was laid out by John King, about twenty years ago, after 
whom it is named. 

LisBURN, a post village, in Allen township, on the Yellow 
Breeches creek, on a public road leading from Carlisle to 
York, sixteen miles from the former, and eighteen from the 
latter ; and seven miles from Harrisburg, in the southeastern 
part of the county, consists of 40 dwellings, principally log 
buildings, two stores, one tavern, a grist mill and saw mill, 
a Union church and school house, and has the usual number 
of mechanics, commonly found in country villages. 

It is an old town, part of it, north of the public road, 
having been laid out 80 years ago by Gerard Erwin, and 
that part south of the road in 1785, by Alexander Frazer 
and James Oren. 

Churchtown, a post towm, in Monroe township, is so 
named because a church, held by the Lutherans and Ger- 
man Reformed, had been built here some tfen or fifteen 
years before the town commenced. It is pleasantly situated 
in a fertile portion of the county, on the main road from 
Shippensburg to Mechanicsburg ; six miles from Carlisle. It 
consists of forty-one dwellings, several of which are fine, 
substantial brick buildings, four stores, two taverns, one 
school house, a church. 

Jacob Wies built the first house here about forty years 
ago. Some of the early settlers in the vicinity of Church- 
town were, the Messrs. Strach, Weis, Bricker, \^ olf, Ran- 
kin, Martin, Scott, Johnston, Crocket, Thornberry, now 
Ege's forge. 



HISTORY OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY. 433 

WoRLEYSTOWN, in Monroe township, on the main road 
leading from Carlisle to Dillsburg, three miles and a half 
from the latter, and seven from Carlisle, was laid out about 
30 years ago, and consists of 10 or 12 dwellings. It is near 
the Yellow Breeches creek. 

Shepperdstown, a post village, in Allen township, on 
the State road, leading from Gettysburg in Adams county, 
eight miles from Harrisburg and twelve from Carlisle, five 
from Dillsburg in York county, and three from Mechanics- 
burg ; situated on an elevated spot, having a commanding 
view of Cumberland Valley. It consists of 18 dwellings, 
one store, one tavern. Near it is a Union church, also 
occupied by a common school. 

Centre Square, a mde west of Shepperdstown, consists 
of a cluster of eight dwellings and several shops, and a tav- 
ern and store. This place had its origin about 25 years 
ago, when Messrs. John Berkey and Jacob Berkey, each 
erected a small log house. 

Shiremanstown, a post village, partly in Hampden and 
partly in Allen township, on the main road leading from Car- 
lisle to New Cumberland, usually called Simpson's Ferry 
road, is five miles w^est of Harrisburg, and twelve miles east 
from Carlisle, and situated in a fertile and highly improved 
portion of the county, the soil being limestone and well cul- 
tivated. 

The first house erected here was built by Daniel Scherbahn, 
executor of George Schnebely, for the widow of the deceas- 
ed, in the summer of 1813. When the first house was built, 
all on the south side of the road, was one dense forest. In 
1814 John Davis erected the house now occupied by Dr. 
Mateer. Both these are on the north side of the road. A 
few years after, Henry Zearing erected one on the south side 
of the road, now owned by George Rupp, jr., and occupied 
as a public house. Shortly afterwards, Martin Zearing 
erected a brick house north of the road. George Sipe', 
Isaac Goshert and Christian Shroll, each erected a house, 
soon after the brick one had been built. About the year 
1827 and 1828 several more, by Jacob Rupp and others 
when it was called Shiremanstown, after Daniel Shireman, 
deceased, who held considerable property here at the time. 
On the death of Shireman, John Rupp, and George Rupp, 
jr., executors of Shireman, laid out an additional number of 

37 



434 



HISTORY OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY. 



lots in 1841, since which the town has steadily increased, 
and now numbers about 60 dwellings, two stores, one tavern, 
a school house and Union church. 

This fall (1845) Jacob Markel laid out some additional 
lots, and several houses have already been built on 'Markel's 
Addition/ The Cumberland Valley railroad passed by, im- 
mediately north of the village. Population 275. 

There are two churches in the immediate vicinity of this 
town : Salems Church, ow^ned by the German Reformed and 
Lutherans, half a mile north of it ; and another, one-fourth 
of a mile east of the town, owned by the United Brethren in 
Christ. The former was erected nearly fifty years ago. 

Friedens Kirch, or Salems Church. — Fifty years ago a 
German Reformed congregation was organized in the lower 
part of Cumberland county, by the Revd. Anthony Hautz. 
In 1797 this congregation agreed, as appears from documen- 
tary evidence, to build the house (now exclusively occupied 
as a school house) for the purpose of holding their religious 
meetings in it, and for school purposes, till a church would 
be built. 

The following is a copy of the original subscription paper. 

"Den 4 Tag April, A. D. 1797, ist die Gemeinde einig 
worden rait dem Johannes Schopp fuer sein alt Haus fuer 
ein Schulhaus, und eine Zeitlang fuer Kirch darin zuhalten ; 
und er hat der Gemeinde das Haus erlaubt fuer fuenfzehn 
Pfund. 

"Wir Unterschreiber versprechen auch dazu zubezahlen ; 
wir mit unserer eigener Hand. 

"Friedrich Lang £2, 5s. Jonas Rupp £2, os. Johannes 
Schopp £3. Johannes Schnevely 15s. George Wuermle 15s. 
George Wild 7s, 6d. Conrad Weber 7s, 6d. Martin Thomas 
3s. Johannes Schwartz lis, 4d. Philip Heck 7s, 6d. Adam 
Viehman 7s, 6d. Jacob Colp £1, 10s. John Merkle £3. 
Casper S warts 7s, 6d. Christyan Swartz 7s, 6d. Abraham 
Wolf 7s, 6d. Friedrich Schweitzer 7s, 6d. Martin Hausser 
£o. Johannes Eberly £4, 17s, 6d. Elisabeth Lang, Witt- 
frau 15s." 

"On the 26th of May, 1797, the congregation obtained 
deeds for the land connected with the school house, from 
Henry Snevely, and Nicholas Kreutzer. In 1798, the 
church was erected under the superintendence of the follow- 
ing building committee, viz: Friedrich Lang, Jonas Rupp, 



HISTORY OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY. AoD 

Leonard S warts, and the Revd. Anthony Hautz, then sta- 
tioned at Carlisle and Trindle spring. 

"Martin Rupp and Thomas Anderson were the builders. 

"A Lutheran congregation had been organized about the 
year 1791 or 1792, who had a house for public worship in 
Louther Manor, several miles northeast of 'Friedens Kirch.' 
This congregation made overtures to the vestry of the Ger- 
man Reformed congregation, May ]8, 1806, to pay them 
£405, 17s, 3d, being one-half of the cost ofFriedens Kirch, 
land, and building of school-house, and inclosing the grave 
yard. This sum, it was proposed to put on interest for the 
use of the German Reformed congregation ; part of which, 
however, was taken to pay the organ, which cost $466,67. 
It was purchased of Conrad Doll, of Lancaster, July 6th, 
1807. 

At the time of the sale of one half of the church to the 
Lutherans, the following persons constituted the vestry of the 
congregations. German Reformed, Frederick Lang, Jonas 
Rupp, Frederick Schw^eitzer, Christian Swiler, Henry Man- 
essraith and Martin Rupp. Lutherans, Nicholas Kreutzer, 
John Wormley, Christoph Eichelberger, Andrew Shuely, 
Christofel Gramlig and Daniel Scherban. 

The joint congregations purchased, April 20, 1812, five 
acres more, on which the present dwelling house, contiguous 
to the church, is erected. In 1830, another small parcel of 
ground was purchased to enlarge the grave yard. [Commu- 
nicated by John Rupp]. 

New Cumberland, formerly called Haldeman's town, 
having been laid out by Jacob M. Haldeman, about twenty 
five years ago, is a post village, and thriving borough in Al- 
len township, three miles below the Harrisburg bridge, at 
the confluence of the Yellow Breeches creek with the Sus- 
quehanna river; seventeen miles from Carlisle. It contains 
about forty dwellings, principally brick buildings, four stores, 
two churches, one tavern, two saw mills, one for sawing 
laths, a patent pump factory, and flouring mill, a Methodist 
church. Population in 3840, 284, at present (1845) about 
315. The York turnpike road passes through this borough. 
Some years ago, Jacob M. Haldeman owned and carried 
on a forge; and at a later period, Mr. Pratt, had an exten- 
sive nail factory in oprratioii here; but has moved it to Fair- 
view. The lumber trade is carried on extensively. An ex- 



436 HISTORY OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY. 

tensive tannery is in operation here. In the height of the 
Multicaulis mania, an association for the manufacture of silk 
was started in this town. 

In the early part of the last century the Shawanese In- 
dians had a town here. It was for many years the landing 
place of Peter Chartier, a Shawanese, an Indian Agent, 
and an individual of some notoriety. He owned at one 
time six hundred acres of land, bounded by the Yellow 
Breeches creek and Susquehanna river, as appears from the 
following extracts taken from the Records in the Land office 
at Harrisburg. 

"By virtue of a -warrant dated, May 5th, 1739, there 
was surveyed on the 2d May last (1740) unto Peter Char- 
tier of the county of Lancaster, a tract of land situate with- 
in our Manor of Paxtan, in the said county : Beginning at 
a Beech tree on the Banks of the said (Susquehanna) river, 
and extending thence by the other part of the said Manor, 
south fifty-four degrees, west two hundred and fifty perches 
to a post, and south thirty-six degrees, two hundred and 
fifty-five perches to a white walnut tree by the side of the 
creek called Yellow Breeches creek ; thence down by the 
same several courses two hundred and ninety-two perches to 
Susquehanna river; thence up the several courses of the 
same three hundred and ninety perches, to the place of be- 
ginning, containing six hundred acres." 

This tract of land embraced the present site of New Cum- 
berland, Messrs. Freeman's, Haldeman's and Martin's farm. 
A few years after this survey had been made Peter Char- 
tier settled on, or near the Allegheny river, about forty miles 
above Pittsburg, at what was called Old Town or Chartier's 
Old Town.* He subsequently proved treacherous to the 
English. In 1744, he accepted a military commission under 
the French and prevailed upon some Shawanese Indians of 
Old Town to move to the French settlements on the Mis- 
sissippi. 

In the spring of 1744, April 18, at the head of four hun=- 
dred of Shawanese, well armed with guns, pistols, and cut- 
laeses, he surprised and took prisoner two Indian traders, 
James Dinnew and Peter Tostee, on the Allegheny river, 
robbed them of all their effects to the amount of £1600, 

• Weiser's Journal, Aug* 174^, j 



HISTORY OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY. 4o7 

Sometime afterwards a few of the seduced Shawanese re- 
turned again to the English, and acknowledged they had 
been misled, and had carried on a private correspondence 
with the French. — Votes. Assem. iv. 13. Prov. Rec. K. 
347, L. 362, 420, 437. 

Governor George Thomas, in his message to the Assem- 
bly, April 25, 1745, says: "I have just received informa- 
tion that Peter Chartier, after disposing of his etfects in this 
government, is gone to the enemy (F'rench). His conduct 
for some years past has rendered him generally suspected ; 
and it seems my reprimanding him for some very exception- 
able parts of it, is made use of amongst other things to ex- 
cuse his inhdelity. Had he been punished as he deserved, 
for the villainous report he spread two years ago, among the 
back inhabitants, in order to spirit them up against such of 
the Six Nations as should happen to travel through those 
parts of the country, he would not have been at this time 
with the enemy ; but an apprehension that the Shawanese, 
whose perfidious blood partly runs in Chartier's veins, might 
resent upon our traders any severities to him, restrained rae 
from making use of such, and induced me to use the gentle 
method of reproof, which his brutish disposition had construed 
into an affront. 

" I am likewise informed, that he has persuaded a consid- 
erable number of the Shawanese to remove from their okl 
town, to a greater distance upon another river, and it is not 
to be doubted but that a savage person of his temper, will 
do us all the mischief he can. If you think it worth w^hiie, 
I will send a special messenger to persuade those Shawnese 
to return to their former place of abode, or I will take any 
other method you shall advise; though it is my opinion, the 
advantages of the trade excepted, the further these people 
remove from our borders, the better it will be for us. I have 
written letters from time to time to the Shawnese chiefs, in- 
viting them down to Philadelphia, and particularly a very 
kind one last fall, which Peter Shaver tells me he deliv- 
ered ; but that I have of late received no answer, may be 
imputed to Chartier's influence over them; and it is too pro- 
bable that he will make use of it to defeat future attempts 
we shall make to revive their friendship with us." — Vote^ 
Ass. iv. 2. 

Fridge Port, at the west end of the Harrisburg bridge. 



438 HISTORV OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY. 

consists of four or five dwellings, and one tavern, owned by 
Mr. Church. 

WoRMtEYSBURG, was laid out by John Wormley, Esq. in 
the fall of 1815, after whom it is called; and is in East-penns- 
borough township, on the right bank of the Susquehanna, 
immediately above the Harrisburg bridge. It contains about 
fifty dwellings, one tavern, two grocery stores, a school 
house, a Methodist meeting house, and the usual number of 
handicrafts, common in small villages. From its peculiar 
situation, and being contiguous to the Cumberland Valley 
railroad depot, a fine lumber trade is carried on here. The 
principal, and best dwellings, were erected by the proprietor 
and his sons. It is worthy of notice that Mr. Wormley was 
for many years the proprietor of the Ferry known by his 
name. Population about 280. [S. Oyster]. 

Fairview, was laid out by Abraham Neidig, Esq. 1815. 
It is pleasantly situated at the confluence of the Conodogwi- 
net creek, with the Susquehanna river, about two miles above 
the Harrisburg bridge, in East-pennsboro township; and con- 
tains about fifty dwellings, one store, school house, a church 
recently built belonging to the United Brethren, and a num- 
ber of mechanics' shops. Population about 250. Contiguous 
to it, are an extensive rolling mill and nail factory, owned by 
Mr. Pratt & co., giving employment to at least one hundred 
hands, which has contributed much to the late and rapid im- 
provements of the town. From its former torpid state, it has 
been roused into activity, by this factory. The Conodogwi- 
net is crossed here by a substantial wooden bridge. In 1700, 
to 1720, the Indians had a town here. — See p. 352. • 

White Hill, a post village, in East Pennsboro' town- 
ship, on the rail road, one mile west from the Susquehanna 
river, consists of seven dwellings. This has sprung up with- 
in the last three or four years; and is named after the Hon. 
Robert Whitehill, who had been for many years an active 
representative of the inhabitants of Cumberland county in 
our State, as well as National hall, of legislation. 

Robert Whitehill, son of James and Rachel Whitehill, 
was born, A. D., 1738, July 29th in the Pequea settlement, 
Lancaster county, where his parents had settled, before lian- 
caster county was organized. He enjoyed, when a lad, the 
advantages of a good school edacation, such as the best com- 
mon schools aflforded ; but subsequently, he enlarged his 



HISTORY OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY. 4S9 

stock of useful information, which proved alike beneficial to 
him and serviceable to his country. 

In 1770, Mr. Whitehill purchased from the proprietaries 
of Pennsylvania, two tracts of land in Laulher Manor, viz: 
No. 17 and part of lot No. 2. (see page 356), In the spring 
of 1771 he left Lancaster cor.nty and settled in Cumberland, 
a few miles west of the Susquehanna. On his land thus 
purchased, he erected the first stone house in the Manor, 
ad which he occupied, till April 8th, 1^13, when he died. 
When M. Whitehill first settled here there were but few 
houses in Lauther Manor,* which contained from eight to 
ten thousand acres. 

Mr. Whitehill long represented Cumberland county in 
various capacities. He was elected a member of the con- 
vention held in Philadelphia, in July 1776, in which the Dt- 
claration of Independence by Congress was approved, and 
other highly important measures were adopted, among which 
were the Constitution of Pennsylvania, the Bill of Rights, 
&c., &c. He was also a member of the Asssembly held in 
Philadelphia, in November 1776, which continued in session 
until the 18th of September 1777, when it was removed to 
Lancaster, and assembled there the 29th September, 1777, 
and continued in session until the 11th Sept. 1778. Subse- 
quently to this he was occasionally a member of either branch 
of the Legislature. He was a member of the Convention 
that adopted the late constitution of Pennsylvania (in the 
printed constitution his name does not appear, he was so 
much opposed to some of its provisions, that he refused to 
affix his name to it). He was also a member of the conven- 
tion that agreed on the part ot Penna. to the constitution ot 
the United States. 

Mr. Whitehill was a member of the House of Represen- 

* The reason why this part was not settled at an early period, m as 
probably, because the proprietors had for many years reserved it for 
the Indians ; as it was not re^urveyed and divided into lots till 1766. 
Much of the land immediately west of the Manor had been taken lip 
and settled thirty years before Mr. Whitehill moved to Cumberland, In 
1772 Dec. 3d, George Thawly sold a tract of land, 211 acres, to my pa- 
terual grandfather, Jonas Rupp, which had been taken up December 
10, 1742, and settled by Wm. McMeans. This tract is known in the 
early recrds as " Providence Tract," now in Hampden township, five 
miles west of the Susquehanna, late the farm of Martin Rupp, deceas- 
ed ; at present occupied by his sons, John and Henry Rupp. — Com- 

PILSH. 



440 HISTORY OF CUMBERLAND CX)UNTY, 

tative during the stormy sessions of 1798, 1799, and 
1800. In 1801 he was elected to the Senate: was the Spea- 
ker during the trial on impeachment of the Judges of the 
Supreme Court. In 1805 he was elected to Congress, and 
was four times re-elected, and was a member at the time of 
his death. It is said he served longer in a representative 
capacity than any other man in Pennsylvania, and it was 
his proud boast that he never intrigued for a nomination nor 
solicited a vote." — Communicated. 

In this connection, the following interesting communica- 
tion, though long, is introduced, which will, it is believed, 
be acceptable to many; 

Whilehill, December 16, 1846. 

Sir — On your passing my door a few days ago, and handing my 
daughter, that cherished book, the Westminister Confession of Faith* 
ofA. D. 1647; and printed by Benjamin Franklin, a century ago, I 
was forcibly reminded to redeem the promise made you some months 
since, "To furnish something for your Historical Collection of our 
native county." 

The facts, incidents, &c., I communicate, I record as they occur to 
my mind. I will confine myself to my youthful neighborhood, and 
such facts as I heard related by those who have, by reason of age, 
gone beyond the bourne whence not return. I need not inform you 
that the first settlers of new countries have to encounter trials, hard- 
ships and dangers. These my ancestors in common with others, ex- 
perienced on their first coming into this county. Notwithstanding 
their multiplied trials and difficulties, they had ever in mind the fear 
and worship of our common Creator. An ancestor of mine, who early 
immigrated to America, was a student of theology under the Revd. 
Tuckney of Boston, who had been a member of the General Assembly 
at Westminister. You will find on consulting the history of the Pres- 
byterian church of ihis country that the name of Craighead appears 
at an early period. In establishing churches in this country, Craig- 
head appears as one of the first ministers. The first sermon preached 
west of the Susquehanna, was delivered by the Rev. Thomas Craig- 
head, then residing, as I believe, in Donegal township, Lancaster coun- 
ty. Soon after these [congregations were organized, in what is now 
Cumberland and Franklin ; viz ; one in the lower settlement near 
Carlisle, one at Big Spring near Newville, and one in the Conego- 
cheague settlement. Thomas Craighead preached at Big Spring. 
When divine service was first held, the settlers went with their gun.s 
to hear preaching. These defensives were then deemed necessary to 
deter the Indians from attacking them. However, the peaceful dis- 

• This copy of the work has descended to the fifth generation. It 
properly belongs to my better half, who, though of the " Blue stockiiig 
order," is of high birth. Mary Sterrett, my wife, was born on tiie 
htighii of the Blue mountain, at Sterret's gap. [T. C. 



HISTORY OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY. 441 

position or the true christian had its salutary influence upon the un- 
tutored Indian — the Indian feared and respected the consistent profess- 
or of religion. Religious influence was felt — At Big Spring, protrac- 
ted meetings were held for public worship. So powerful, it is said, 
were the, influences of the spirit, that the worshippers felt loath, even 
after having exhausted their stores of provision, to disperse. I have 
heard it from the lips of those present, when Thomas Craighead, de- 
livered one of the parting discourses, that his flow of eloquence seem- 
ed supernatural — he continued in bursts of eloquence, while his audi- 
ence was melted to tears — himself however exhausted, hurried to pro- 
nounce the blessing ; waving his hand, and as he pronounced the 
words, farewell, farewell, he sank down, expired without a groan or 
struggle. His remains rest where the church now stands; as the 
only monument of his memory. 

John Craighead, a cousin of Thomas', settled at an early dale, on 
Yellow Breeches creek, near Carlisle. His son John ofhciaied, a short 
time as pastor at Big Spring. He then removed to Conegocheague 
and was there placed as pastor. When the Revolution was the ab- 
sorbing question of the day, he an ardent whig, and fearless of conse- 
quences, the government had an eye on him ; but the people were 
with him; he preached liberty or death from the pulpit, the young 
men's bosoms swelled wiih enthusiasm for military glory — they march- 
ed to the tented field, and several were killed. Still he urged them 
not lo be daunted. On one occasion he brought all his eloquence to 
bear on the subject until" his congregation arose lo their feet, as if 
ready to march. An old lady who had lost a son in battle, hallooed 
out, "Stop, Mr. Craighead, I jist want to tell ye, agin you loss such a 
puny boy as I have, in the war, ye will na be so keen for fighting; quit 
talking, and gang yersel to the war. Yer always preaching to the boys 
about it ; but I dina think ye'd be very likely to gang yersel. Jist go 
and try it—" He did try it; and the next day he and Mr. Cooper — I 
think — a preacher also, set about to raise a company ; they did raise 
one, of the choicest spirits that ever did live. Marched in short order; 
joined the army under Washington, in the Jerseys ; he fought and 
preached alternately; breasted all danger, relying on his God and the 
justice of his cause for protection. « 

One day, going into battle, a cannon ball struck a tree near him, a 
splinter of which nearly Knocked him down. "God bless me," says 
Mr. Cooper, "you were nearly knocked to staves." "Oh, yes, (says 
he very coolly) though you are a cooper, you could not have set me 
up." He was a great humorist. The Revd. Mr. Caihcart, of Little 
York, who is still living, knew him well. When he marched his com- 
pany, they encamped near where I am now writing, at the Hon. Robt. 
V\ hitehili's, who opened his cellar, vvfhich was well stored with pro- 
visions and barrels of apple brandy. Col. Hendricks' daughters as- 
sisted in preparing victuals for them. They fared sumptuously, with 
this brave man. They next encamped at Boyd's, in Lancaster county: 
he fell in love with Jenny Boyd, and married her. He died of a cancer 
on his breast, leaving no children. His father, John, had been educa- 
ted in Europe for the ministry; but, on his return, he found preaching 
a poor business to live by. He slopped at Philadelphia, took to tailor- 
ing; took good care when he went into good company, to tie up his 
forefinger, for fear of his being discovered ; but being a handsome liltle 



442 HISTORY OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY. 

man, avid having a good education, he was courted by the elite of the 
day. He fell in with an English heiress, of the name of Montgomery, 
I think ; married her and spent the fortune, all but a few webs of lin- 
en, with which he purohased from the Proprietor 500 acres of land on 
Yellow Breeches, which is now descended to the fifth generation by 
inheritance, and the sixth is born on it. Some of the remains of his 
cabin may be found to this day. His other two sons, Thos. & James, 
were farmers ; they had great difficulty in paying the balance due on 
their land. They took their produce to Annapolis (no business done 
in Baltimore then) — prices got dull; they stored it; the merchant 
broke ; all seemed gone ; they applied for more time ; buill a sawmill; 
they had made the money, but the war came on. Thomas was drafted; 
his ?on, John, 13 years old, and my father, drove the baggage wagon. 
It look the money to equip, and bear their expenses, while going to, 
and in camp. Thos. took the camp fever, and his son the small pox. 
General Washington gave them a furlough to return home. A younger 
son, James, met them below Lancaster and drove the team home. He 
often stopped and looked into ihe wagon to see if they were still living; 
but he got them home, and they both recovered. By some mistake in 
recording their furlough, there was a fine imposed on Thomas for 
leaving camp a few days before his time was up: when the bailiff" 
came to collect it, he was up on a barrack building wheat; the officer 
was on horseback ; he told him he would come down and pay him: he 
came down, took a hickory-wiih that happened to lie near, caught his 
little horse by the tail, and whipped the officer, asking him if he was 
paid ; until he said he was paid. That settled the fine. He was paid 
off with Congress money; broke vp again, with a chest full of money. 
B^ this time, things began to go up, all prospered. John Craighead, 
his father, had been an active member of the Stony Kidge convention; 
which met to petition parliament for redress of grievances : he was 
closely watched by the Tories; and one Pollock was very near having 
him apprehended as a rebel, but the plot was found out, and Pollock 
bad to leave the county. Near the place where this convention met 
at the stony ridge, one Samuel Lamb lived on his land, there was a 
block house, where the neighbors flew for shelter, from hostile Indians. 
This is now Hartzler's farm. Lamb was a stone mason ; buill stone 
chimneys for the rich farmers, who became able to hew logs and put 
up what was called a square log house. They used to say he plumbed 
his corners with aspitih; that is, he spit down the corner to see if it 
was plumb. Indeed, many chimneys are standing to this day, and look 
like it; but he had a patriotic family. When the army rendezvoused 
at Little York, four of his sous were in the army; two officers and two 
common soldiers. His daughters had a web of woollen in the loom; 
they woof colored with Sumach berries, and made it as red as they 
could; for all war habiliments were dyed red as possible: made 
coats bv guess for their brothers, put them in a tow cloth wallet, slung 
it over their young broiher, Samuel, to take to camp ; he hesitated, the 
country being nearly all forest, and full of wolves, bears, &c. One of 
them, Peggy, who is still living, asked him. What are you afraid of? 
Go on, sooner come home a corpse than a coward. He did go on, and 
enlisted during the war: came home, married Miss Trindle of Trindle 
spring; removed to Kentucky; raised a large family, (he was on the 
Jury that tried the Nugenis' at Carlisle). It seems as if there was 



HISTORY OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY. 443 

something in the blood ; as one of his sons in the last war was a 
mounted volunteer in Gen. Harrison's army. 

At the battle of Tippecanoe, he rode a very spirited horse, and on 
reining him, to keep him in the ranks, his bridle bit broke, being an 
athletic long leged fellow, and his horse running at full speed towards 
the ranks of the enemy, he brandished his sword, ^hallooing, "clear 
the way ! I am coming;" the ranks opened, let him through, and he 
escaped safe, and got back to his camp. Peggy Lamb deserves a 
notice; she afterwards married Captain William Scott, who was a pri- 
soner on Long Island, and she now enjoys a Captain's half pay; lives 
in Mechanicsburg, near her native place, a venerable old lady, in full 
strength of intellect, though more than four score years have passed 
over her. She well deserves the little boon her country bestows upon 
her. The first horse I remember to ride alone, was one taken in the 
revolution by William Gilson who then lived on the Conodoguinett 
creek, where Harlacher's mill now is — he was one of Hindman's Ri- 
flemen, and after the battle of Trenton, he being wounded in the leg, 
two of his brother soldiers were helping him off the field, they were 
pursued by three British Light Horsemen, across an old field and must 
be taken, they determined to sell themselves as dear as possible, Gil- 
son reached the fence and propped himself against it, " now says he, 
" man for man, I take the toremost," he shot him down, the next was 
also shot, the third was missed, the two horses pursued their course 
and were caught by Gibson and his companions and brought into 
camp; his blue dun lived to a great age; Gilson was offered 1600 
pounds for him. Gilson removed to Westmoreland county ; his wife 
was also a Trindle; he left a numerous and respectable family. I wish 
I was able to do those families more justice, for their patriotism and 
integrity to their country. They have left a long line of offspring, who 
are now scattered far and wide over the Union. If they but would all 
take their forefathers for examples. I come now within my own remem- 
brance of Cumberland county. I have seen many a pack horse loaded 
with nail rods at Ege's Forge, to carry out to Sommerset county, and the 
forks of Yougheigany and Red Stone Fort, to make nails for their log 
cabins, &c. I have seen my father's team loading slit iron to go to P^ort 
pitt: John Rowan drove the team. I have known the farmers teans to 
to haul iron from the same Forge to Virginia, load back corn for (eed, 
at the Forge. All the grain in the county was not enough for its own 
consumption. I have Itnown fodder so scarce, that some farmers were 
obliged to feed the thatch that was on their barns to keep their cattle 
alive. James Lamb bought land in Sherman's valley, and he and his 
neighbors, had to pack straw on horses across the mountain. He was 
on the top of the mountain waiting until those going over would get 
up, as they could not pass on the path; he hallooed out, " have they 
any more corn in Esypt 1" I saw the first Mail stage that passed 
through Carlisle to Pittsburg. It was a great wonder— the people said 
the proprietor was a great fool. I think his name was Slough. I 
happened a short time ago to visit a friend, Jacob Ritner, son of that 
great and good man Ex-Gov. Rilner, who now owns Captain Denny's 
Farm, who was killed during the revolutionary war. The house had 
been a tavern, and in repairing it, Mr. Ritner found some books, Sic. 
which are a curiosity. Charge, breakfast, £20, dinner, horse feed £30. 
Some charges still more extravagant ; but we know in was paid with 



444 HISTORY OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY. 

Congress money. The poor soldier, on his return, had poor money ; 
but the rich boon, Liberty, was a prize to him far more valuable. So 
late as 1808, I hauled some materials to Oliver Evans' saw mill at 
Pittsburg. I was astonished to see a mill going without water. Mr. 
Evans satisfied my curiosity, by shewing, and explaining everything 
he could to me. He looked earnestly at me and said "you niay live to 
see your .wagons coming out here by steam." The words were so 
impressed, that I have always remembered them. I have lived to see 
them go through Cumberland county, and it seems to me, that I may 
see them go through to Pittsburg; but I have seen Mr. Evans' 
prophesy fulfilled, beyond what I thought possible at that time; but. 
things have progressed at a rate much faster than the most gigantic 
minds immagined, and we are onward still. * » » • 

Yours, truly, &c., Thomas Craighead, Jr. 

MiLLTOWN, or Cedar Spring mills, on Cedar Hill, in 
Allen township, consists of a cluster oi some 14 or 15 
houses, a church, grist mill, saw mill, clover mill, several 
mechanics' shops, pleasantly situated in a dell, three miles 
south w^est of ilarrisburg. Casper Weber erected a mill 
here more than seventy-five years ago 

Frogtown, at the head of Cedar Spring, three fourths of 
a mile south of Shiremanstown, consists of a few^ houses, all 
owned by Jacob Markle. 

Sporting Hill, or " Kreutzer's Stand," consists of a 
cluster of six houses, a store, tavern, 5h miles from Harris- 
burg, on the turnpike road leailing to Carlisle. 

During the French and Indian war, a man was shot by 
the Indians near this place. Several persons had met on 
public business, at Mr. Wood's, late John Eberly's; one of 
the company went down towards McMean's (Kreutzer's) 
spring, when he was shot and scalped. He had been re- 
cently married — they sent for his wife — she was, to use the 
language of Mr. Silvers', present at the time, almost dis- 
tracted, casting herself upon the corpse of the deceased, ex- 
claiming, "Oh! Oh! my husband I my husband I" 

(Mr. Silvers communicated the facts to George Rupp, 
senior, more than fifty years ago, from whom I have them.) 



HISTORY OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY. 



445 



At the time when the first immigrants settled in this coun- 
ty they were surrounded by Indians in aUiance with the Six 
Nations, with whom they lived on terms of intimacy for 
some years. The pioneer settlers were principally from the 
north ot Ireland, with some few from Scotland, and some 
from England. They were, with few exceptions, Presby- 
terians, and ardently attached to the church of their fathers ; 
to that end they early made provisions for the support of 
spiritual instructors, and the erection of churches at suitable 
places. In the lower part of the county a church was built, 
at Silvers' spring ; one on the Conodoguinet creek, called 
the Meeting House spring ; not a vestige of either of the 
two, remains ; another was built near Newville ; and one at 
Middlespring, in the vicinity of Shippensburg — and several 
in the western part of the county (now Franklin). 

Silvers^ Spring Church — The present one was built in 
1783. A wooden one had been erected here forty years be- 
fore. The Cemetery is the oldest place of interment in the 
lower part of the county. The following epitaphs I copied 
Dec. 1844. 

Here lies the body of William MacMean, who departed 
this life in the year 1747, aged 35 years. 

Here lies the body of John Hamilton, who departed this 
life Dec. 29, 1747, aged 47 years. 

In memory of James Wood, who departed this life, Feb- 
ruary, 24, 17-50, aged 41 years. 

In memory of the Revd. Mr. Samuel Gavon, who depart- 
ed this life, Nov. 9, 1750, aged 49 years. 

Beneath this tomb are deposited the remains of Margaret, 
wife of Samuel Mateer, born in the north of Ireland, county 
Down, departed this life, July 3d, 1802, aged 100 years. 

Besides Presbyterians were some of the Church of Eng- 
land, or Protestant Episcopal Church, and a few Catholics. 
Of the latter there were in Cumberland county, 1757, twelve; 
six males, and six females (see pa. 49). A few German 
Reformed and some Menonites, had settled in Antrim town- 
ship (now Franklin county ;) some of the latter were Swiss. 

The custom and habits of the first settlers were, " as the 
country," susceptible of change. Men wore hunting shirts 
and moccasins, homespun and home-made. From necessity, 
they practised, upon the principles ; 

38 



446 HISTORY OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY. 

Selbst gesponnen, selhst gemacht ; 
Rein dahey, ist Bauern Fracht. 
Or, as a certain writer of that day expressed himself: 

Despicit exoticas que dapes, vestesque superhas^ 
Contentus modicus vivere pace suis — 
Esuriens dulces epula9 depromit inemptas 
Et proprio vestes vellere taxta placet, 
Parva humilisque domus, etc., etc. 

Which when versified, reads — 

He scorns exotic foods, and gaudy dress. 
Content to live on homely fare, in peace — 
Sweet to the taste his unbought dainties are. 
And his own homespun, he delights to wear. 
His lowly dwelling, &c. 

Carpets they had none. The floors were not made of 
sawed and planed boards, but of split wood and hewed ; and 
many a cabin had the earth for a floor. " Their chairs were 
benches," their tables of the rudest kind, and the furniture 
of the table for several years after this county had been set- 
tled consisted, among those in easier circumstances, of a few 
pewter dishes, plates and spoons ; those in more ordinary 
circumstances, also had dishes, plates, and spoons, bowls, 
trenchers, noggins, but theirs were all made of wood. And 
as substitutes, gourds and hard shelled squashes, made to 
suit their wants, were deemed sufficient. Iron pots, knives 
and forks, especially the latter, were never seen of different 
sizes and sets in the same kitchen. 

For some thirty or forty years when they first settled in 
the lower end of the county, and for a longer time in the 
western part of it, bears, wolves, deer, panthers, wild cats, 
squirrels, wild turkeys, &c., were abundant in the woods 
and copse. The otter, muskrat, and other amphibious ani- 
mals, were numerous on, and along the rivers, creeks, and 
rivulets, which teemed with the finny race. The luscious 
shad, in countless myriads, came up the Susquehanna, and 
its tributaries — fish of all kinds were taken in boundless 
profusion, in almost all the streams, both small and large. — 
Thousands of shad were taken in the Conodoguinet creek, 
some ten or twelve miles up from its mouth, within the re- 
collection of some of our old citizens. Many of them, as 



HISTORY ( F CUMBERLAND COUNTY. 447 

well as other fish, were taken with rude nets or seines, made 
of boughs or branches tied to grape vines. A seine of this 
kind was called a "Brush net." 

The first settlers were for some years greatly annoyed by 
the ravenous wolf, which attacked sheep, calves and cows. 
Several individuals are still living in the lower part of the 
county, who well remember when wolves came prowling 
about their houses at night and looked through the openings 
of their rude, log dwelUngs, howl about the premises, and 
destroyed sheep and cattle, that were not protected or sta- 
bled. 

The compiler's father, an aged man, informed him, that 
when he was a lad, he saw from his father's house, wolves 
pursuing deer a mile or more in the direction of Mechanics- 
burg. It shoukl be borne in mind that the region of country 
between the Conodoguinett and Yellow Breeches, from the 
Susquehanna, to ten or twelve miles westward, was a Bar- 
rens ; not a tree to be seen on a thousand acres. 

Wolves were not easily taken with a steel trap ; pens, 
built of logs or stout poles, shelving inwards on all sides, 
were preferred. After the pen had been erected, a hait, usu- 
ally a half devoured carcass of a sheep, upon which they had 
previously a meal, was placed in it. The wolt could easily 
clamber up the exterior of the trap, and enter at the top, 
which was left open ; but when once at the bottom, glutting 
his voracious appetite, he was held " in durance fast." 

Mr. Graralig, an old gentleman, pointed out to me, on my 
lather's farm, more than thirty years, the spot where a wolf 
was taken in this way by his venerable father — and it was 
the last taken in the lower end of Cumberland. 

The sufferings, difficulties and trials the first settlers en- 
dured from the privations of the luxuries of life, if they ever 
had enjoyed them, bear however no comparison with the suf- 
ferings they had to endure during the French and Indian 
war. To attempt to describe these would prove a failure. 
The reader may form a more adequate idea of their suffer- 
ings, &c., by carefully reading the preceding part of this 
compilation. 

The present population is composed of the descendants of 
the early Irish, Scotch, English and German settlers ; and 
descendants of French Huguenots — of these are the Scher- 
bahns. Youngs, and Le Fevres- The Germans began to 



448 HISTORY OF CUMBERLAND CODNTY. 

immigrate into this country about the year 1760. Their de- 
scendants, at least many of them, still speak the language of 
their fathers — however, not with that purity. The German, 
as now generally spoken, is a kind of fatoi, or as we would 
say in German, kauderwaelsch, i. e. jargon. Taken collec- 
tively, the inhabitants of this county, are a moral and indus- 
trious people, favorably disposed to encourage institutions, 
having for their object the advancement of education, relig- 
ion, arts and sciences. 

Education. — The common school system has been adopted 
in every township in this county. There are eighteen school 
districts, and one hundred and twenty-two schools in the 
county. In these schools, one hundred and eight males, and 
nineteen female teachers are employed. In 1844, 4,192 
males, and 3,074 females received instruction. Of this num- 
ber, only 24 were learning German. A district tax of 
$12,673 27 was raised, and the state appropriation was 
S7,033 90. Total cost of instruction, $14,107 04 ; fuel and 
contingencies, $il,191 95. 

These schools, with their powerful auxiliaries. Sabbath 
schools, lyceums, &c., aided by an independent press, if pro- 
perly conducted, must prove the cordon to ignorance and its 
concomitants, vice and immorality. 

Religious denominations. — These are Presbyterian, Pro- 
testant Episcopal, Lutheran, German Reformed, Associate 
Reformed, Methodist Episcopal, Methodist Protestant, Uni- 
ted Brethren in Christ, German Baptists, Mennonites, Re- 
formed Mennonites, Evangelical Association, Disciples of 
Christ, New Jerusalem Church, Church of God, and Advent- 
ists. These all have regular and stated places of worship. 

Provision for the Poor. — About 2 miles west of Carlisle 
is the Poor House; and, says Miss Dix, remarkably well sit- 
uated, and has a well managed, productive farm. In October 
(1844) there were one hundred paupers, seven of which were 
insane. At that time none were constantly in close confine- 
ment* The "crazy cells," in the basement, I consider unfit 
for use in all respects. Chains and hobbles are in use I 



HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY. 



CHAPTER XXX. 

FRANKLIN COUNTY ERECTED, ETC. 

Franklin erected — Act touching the boundary, &c. — Lines of division 
defined — Trustees for the county appointed — Present boundary — 
Geological aspect— Geology of the county— Land, different kinds of; 
limestone, slate, &c. — General statistics, agricultural, &c. — Synop- 
sis of census of 1840— Streams, descnptiye of— Natural curiosities 
— Public improvements, railroad, turnpikes— Common roads— Tax- 
ables in 1752. 

Franklin county is, in time of order, the thirteenth county 
organized in the state, and was established by an act of As- 
sembly, September 9th, 1784 ; having previously been the 
southwestern part of Cumberland county; designated by the 
name of "The Conococheague settlement," so called from 
the principal stream, tne Conococheague creek. 

The following counties had been organized before Franklin, viz : 
Philadelphia, Bucks and Chester, in 1682; Lancaster in 1729, York 
1749, Cumberland 1750, Berks and Northampton 1752, Bedford 1771, 
Northumberland 1772, Westmoreland 1773, Washington 1781, Fayette 
17S3, then Franklin. 

The first section of the act says, "Whereas, many of the inhabitants 
of the southwestern part of the county of Cumberland have, by their 
petition to General Assembly of this Stale, represented the inconveni- 
ences and hardships which they suffer, by the large extent of the said 
county of Cumberland, and the great distance at which the said peti- 
tioners dwell from the town of Carlisle, where the courts of justice, 
and the public offices of the same county are held, and kept, and that 
by reason of snch remoteness of the said courts and offices, the recov- 
ery of their just debts is rendered difficult and disagreeable, and 
and in some cases is unequal to the pains and costs which they would 
be put to in prosecuting and suing for them; and that felons, misdoers, 
and other offenders, from the same causes, often escape the puuis^h- 
ment due to their demerits. — Smith's Laws. ii. 264. 

38* 



450 HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY. 

The boundaries and limits in the act are, " Thai all and singular 
the lands lying, and being within that part of Cumberland county, 
which are bounded as foUoweth, that is to say; beginning on the York 
county line in the South mountain, at the intersection of the line be- 
tween Lurgan and Hopewell townships, in Cumberland county; thence 
by the line of Lurgan township (leaving Shippensburgh to the east- 
ward of the same) to the line of Fannet township; thence by the lines 
of last mentioned township (including the same) to the line of Bedford 
county; thence by the line of Bedford county, southwardly, to the Ma- 
ryland line ; thence by the said line, east, to the line of York county; 
thence by the line of York county, along the South mountain, to the 
place of begmning, be, and hereby are erected into a county, named, 
and hereafter to be called, the county of Franklin." 

James Maxwell, James McCalmont, Josiah Crawford, David Stoner 
and John Johnston were appointed for the county, who were directed 
to take assurances of and for two lots of ground, in the town of Cham- 
bersburg or Chamberstown, in Guilford township, for the seats of a 
court house and a county jail or prison — and thereupon to erect a 
court house and prison, sufficient to accommodate the public service 
of the county. 

The line between Franklin and Cumberland, being doubtful, it was 
explained by an act of March 27, 1790, in Ihe following manner, "that 
a line beginning at York county line, in the South mountain, at the 
intersection of Lurgan and Hopewell townships; thence by a line 
composed of part of the original line of Lurgan township, and one to 
be run, so as to leave the tract of land, now, or late of Edward Ship- 
pen, whereon the town of Shippensburg is erected, within the county 
of Cumberland, to the line of Fannet township ; thence by the lines 
of the last mentioned township (leaving the same in Franklin county) 
to the line of Bedford county, shall be the boundary line between the 
countips of Cumberland and Franklin." 

By an act of 29th March, 1798, "all that part of Bedford, commonly 
called the Little Cove, and lying eastward of a line to begin in the 
Maryland line, near the Great Cove, or Tuscarora mountain ; thence 
running northeasterly, along the summit of said mountain, until it in- 
tersects the present line between Bedford and franklin counties, was 
annexed to Franklin county, and to be considered as part of Montgom- 
ery township." 

Commissioners were appointed to run the boundary line at the ex- 
pense of Franklin county. — Smith's Laws. 

Franklin county is bounded on the west by Bedford ; northwest by 
Huntingdon ; northeast by Perry and Cumberland ; east by Adams, 
and south by the State of Maryland. Its greatest extent from North to 
South is .38 miles, and from east to west 34 miles, containing an area 
of 734 miles, or 469.760 acres. Population in 1790, 15,655; in 1800, 
19,638; 1810, 23,173; 1820, 31,892; 1830, 35,037; 1840, 37,793— at 
present 40,000. Aggregate amount of property taxable in 1844, was 
Jll.600,143 00. 

The first court was held September 15, 1784, before Humphrey Ful- 
lerton, Esq., Thomas Johnston, Esq., and James Finley, Esq. — Ed. 
Crawford, clerk. 

December 2, 1784, the second court, was held before William Mc- 
Dowell, Esq., Humphrey Fullerton, Esq., and James Finley, Esq. Jer- 



HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY. 451 

emiah Talbot, sheriff. The Grand Jury was James Poe, Henry Paw- 
lin<», William Allison. Wm. McDo-well, Robert Wilkins, John McCon- 
nell, John McCarny, John Ray, John Jack, jr., John Dickson, D. Mc- 
Clintick, Joseph Chambers and Joseph Long. 

The county belongs to the great central transition formation, and 
the greater part consists of an extensive valley of fertile land, well 
cultivated and highly improved, amply repaying the husbandman for 
the labor bestowed upon it. 

The eastern portion of the county; especially parts of South Hamp- 
ton, Green, Guilford, Quincy and Washington townships, are hilly, 
bordering on the South mountain, the elevation of which, above the 
middle of the valley, is from 600 to 900 feet. 

The north and northwestern townships are mountainous. The Tus- 
carora mountain forms the boundary between Bedford, Huntingdon 
and Juniata counties. In Fannet township are several prominent hills, 
besides the Kittatinny mountain ; such as the Round Top, near Con- 
cord ; the Dividing mountain ; Clark's knob. Metal township lies be- 
tween the Tuscarora mountain and the Kittatinny. Jordan's knob and 
Parnell's knob, about two miles south of Loudon, which is said to be 
nearly 1200 feet high, are both in Peters' township. Cove mountain 
separates Warren and Montgomery townships. In the south and west- 
ern part of the latter township, are two prominences, called Clay Lick 
and Two Top Mountains. 

In the mountainous and hilly portions are several villages, such as 
Burns' valley, between the Round Top and Dividing Mountain ; Path 
valley, partly in Fannet and partly in Metal township, is bounded 
northwest by the Tuscarora mountain, which is about 1700 feet above 
the middle of the valley, and southeast by the Dividing mountain, 
which separates it from Ambcrson's. which lies between the Kittatinny 
and Dividing mountain. In 'Amberson's valley is a noted Sulphur 
Spring. Horse valley extends from St. Thomas township into Letter- 
kenny. 

The geological features are briefly stated in the following extract — 
"The irregular chain of hills, called the South mountain, consists, in 
this county, almost entirely of the hard white sandstone, which lies 
next above the primary rocks. In the valley westward of this is the 
great limestone formation, extending throughout the whole length of 
this valley, from Easton on the Delaware line. In this county, as else- 
where, interposed beds of differently colored slates are found in lime- 
stone, and sometimes also sandstones are met with in a like position. 
Along the eastern side of the limestone range, and its junction with the 
mountain sandstone, are valuable and extensive beds of iron ore, 
which supply the furnaces in operation in that region. Ore is also 
found at many places ia the valley, most of which of that variety 
called pipe ore, is of superior quality. 

The soil of the south mountain is sandy and sterile, and not favora- 
ble to the culture of grass or grain. It is a wild and desert region, 
covered with forests which yield fuel for iron works on its borders, 
and offers but little attraction to any except the woodcutter and the 
hunter. But on reaching the great limestone valley, on the west of 
these hills, a most striking contrast is presented. A soil of almost 
unsurpassed fertility, highly cultivated farms, neat and even elegant 
buildings, an industrious, intelligent, and happy population, gladden 



452 HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY. 

the eye of the traveller as he passes through this beautiful, favored 
region. 

On the northwest and west of the limestone formaiion next above it 
in geological position, the line of junction passing from a little north- 
ward of Shippensburg, soulhwestward by Chambersburg and Green- 
castle, to the Maryland line. In the southwestern part of the county, 
however, in the neighborhood of Mercersburg, owing to the disturbance 
consequent upon the elevation of the mountain chains, we find the 
limestone again appearing in belts which stretch across east of the 
Cove mountain, between Parnell's and Jordan's knobs on the north, 
and Two Top and Clay Lick mountains in the south. 

The mountain ranges in the north and west of the county, are com- 
posed of the gray and reddish sandstones which belong to the forma- 
tion next in order above the dark slate last mentioned, and which is 
found in most of the valleys at their base. 

In Horse valley, however, there is a synclinal axis, where the moun- 
tain sandstone, dipping from both sides towards the centre of the val- 
ley, is overlaid by the red shale, next above in position. So in the Lit- 
tle Cove in the southwest corner of the county, we have tne same red 
shale, together with the overlying limestone and the olive slate. A 
furnace has been erected in this secluded valley, which is supplied 
•with ore from its immediate vicinity." 

Franklin county, lying between the North and South mountain, is 
characterized for its diversity of aspect and soil. The greater propor- 
tion of it is limestone. It abounds in the following townships, viz: 
Antrim, Guillord, Montgomery, Washington, Quincy, also to some ex- 
tent in Greene and Metal, &c. According to the agricultural statistics 
of 1838, there were limestone cleared, 101,020 acres; limestone un- 
cleared 31,140 ; slate land cleared 72,640 ; slate land uncleared 40,840; 
gravel land cleared 19,560; gravel land uncleared 13,930; sand land 
uncleared 12,670; mountain or rock 98,250; known to contain iron 
ore 1,530. 

The whole quantity of cleared land of all kinds 204,720 acres; the 
whole of uncleared land, but fit for cultivation, 67,010 acres; unfit for 
cultivation and not cleared 86,870 acres. A greater proportion of all 
the cleared land is in a high state of cultivation, and principally by 
the owners of lands themselves. The farms are of different sizes, from 
one to three hundred acres. 

The average value, per acre, of cleared land is $35; of uncleared 
land $30 ; though some of the best improved farms would sell for $100 
per acre. The average value per acre, of woodland, unfit for cultiva- 
tion, is $4 and $5. The whole of the cleared land was valued in 1838 
at $6,656,430 ; of all the uncleared land $1,898,130. The whole num- 
ber of farms two thousand and sixty-four. 

According to the census of 1840 there were 8 furnaces in this coun- 
ty, which produced 3,810 tons of cast iron ; 11 forges, bloomeries and 
rolling mills, produced 1,125 tons of bar iron ; the furnaces and forges 
consumed 8,552 tons of fuel, and afforded employment, including min- 
ing operations, to 518 hands; employing a capital of $258,500. 

Silk. — Sixty-four pounds of reeled silk, valued at $115; a capital 
invested of $1100. Tobacco. — Value of manufactured articles $6,200; 
employed seventeen hands, with a capital of $3000. Hats, caps, bon- 
nets, &c. — Value of hats and caps manufactured $20,300; value ot 



HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY. 453 

bonnets §500 ; giving employ to 35 persons ; capital invested $9,900. 

There were 37 tanneries ; tanned eighteen thousand and seventy 
sides of sole leather; eight thousand and seventy sides of upper ; era- 
ployed 94 men ; capital invested $90,000. All other manufactories of 
leather, saddleries, &c., 21 ; value of manufactured articles $50,200; 
capital invested $8,300. Soap and Candles. — Number pounds of soap 
28,642; tallow candles 39,334 pounds ; employed 2 men ; with a cap- 
ital of $3000. Distilleries 40; which produced 522,000 52 gallons of 
spirituous liquors ; one brewery which produced 13000 gallons of beer; 
the distilleries and the brewery employed 75 hands ; capital $73,500. 

There were 5 potteries ; the value of manufactured articles amount- 
ed to $4,200 ; employed 5 men ; with a capital of $1,540. Retail dry 
goods, grocery, and other stores 111; with an aggregate capital of 
$524,400; employed 191 men. Bricks and lime manufactured to the 
value of $7,860; employed 17 hands. Seven fulling mills ; 9 woollen 
manufactories; value of manufactured goods $6,950 ; employed 41 
persons; capital invested $2,150. One paper manufactory; value of 
all other manufactures of paper $15,000; employed 38 hands ; capital 
invested $105,000. Four printing offices; three binderies ; 4 weekly 
and 1 semi-monthly newspaper ; employed 24 hands; capital $8,800. 
One ropewalk; value of produce $3*^00; employed 6 men; capital $1500. 
Carriages and wagons; value of manufactures $23,700; employed 60 
men; capital invested $11,500. Flouring mills, 33; barrels of flour 
manufactured 63,943 : 64 grist mills ; 119 saw mills; 7 oil mills ; value 
of manufacture $18,192 ; employed 144 men; capital $109,020. 

Furniture manufacturr-d to the value of $5,000 ; employed 22 hands; 
capital invested $2,300. Brick and stone houses built 119; wooden 
houses 89 : employed 58 men ; value of constructings the buildings 
$20,950. Value of all other manufactured articles not above enumer- 
ated $400 ; capital invested $600. Total capital invested in manufac- 
tures $436,610. 



o 
-5 

o' 

3 


Antrim, 

Greencastle boro' 

Chambersburg, 

Fannet, 

Green, 

Fayetteville, 

Guilford, 

Hamilton, 

Letterkenny, 

Lurgan, 

Metal, 

Fannetsburg, 

Montgomery, 

Mercersburg, 

Peters, 

Loudon, 

Quincy, 

St. Thomas, 

Southampton, 

Warren, 

Washington, 

Waynesboro' 


o 

en 

•a 

en 


« n 
-s 2 o " 

■ s 2 

<n 00 
- c 


O 

o 


►-WW — C0 0^^J<!<!H-G0--O>^^M0^O^Q0OCnC0 


under 5 


to 


^ H- — H- — to ►- — M h-K-H- — 

OtO*».^tni^«C — tOCDi— tOQOC0^»fi.i— Cn05Wif>-<t 


5 and under 10 


7^ 


OUlCOM— OCi— OOtnO ^CDC0^00D^5OlWW^p> — 
»0 — ;S — ~3— W~}^C0aD0TO^05)f^»-^00>-C0t5 


10 and under 15 


o 


irkCocooDotststDOSifi- — c;'O5000DM^^•— o>»»-.f>.cn 
^aoo5aoo5*•rf».lf».^^-ao^5C^Ol^•^^s<i«oo^a^Ol 


15 and under 20 


o 


— t-K-ts ►-•—to (— >-'^^ ^^►-co ts 
Otfo;Mi.yiMtoajifi©to^oocno:i:>(^0505H-05>(^ 

00500tOMQDyi^MtSCnC5i*^00«*^'»tSCO'- WQOO 


20 and under 30 


10 


CO'-WODOD.;^. — <105WH-OsCntDtD~.!M>f».ODQO>t^y 


30 and under 40 


05 


-N!ooa^oJi^s*>■ooo5aD^-^stn^50*^>f>.co^tno 


40 and under 50 


00 
en 


-^a'0■-UlO^^»oc5tnc5<o^s^s-J►— if».Q0Q0«D>^>— 


50 and under 60 




►-Wi— MtSJO M ^^ ^-'►-^50^l*>. MCOCO — CO 
iO«CnO>— COtO — ^if^i— OOi7lCn>f^Om-~jK-Oi65J.i 


60 and under 70 


^ 


■ _ — to H- — H- to ^ H- ►- 
1— O'OlOODO'-'OtOCO — MC;»C;t'»JON-rf:ki— 00*»..^ 


70 and under 80 


2 


tOtOOO — *>.C:tOtOWOCOCO«;^OiMO*-QD*^ — Oi 


80 and under 90 


(3 


to H->-'tO ►- JO >— H-h-^s tOi—tO to 
O5C0Wlt0>^- — tOtOOSOTtOOQOOtOCOCO — l^'OlOSOl 
^— 00050~^tOtOCOl*itDtOOO>f>..;i.(X3MO>— -:!'— GO 


under 5 


to 

o 
1^ 


i^O^'tOCO^tOi^if^OH-^OOIlO — H-COtnooOOtno 
•<'3itO — tOH- — Oifi-CO — WC5*>-WCOC0'-'>^^Wi—. 


5 and under 10 


43 

^1 


C0CTh^OOC0t0 — 0503H-<!-^ — (OOtOtO>— 03ifi.M 
tOOQ0^65CO^Oi— tOC5>f>-i^ — 005i— ts — «p>-co^ 


10 and under 15 


o 


>AC0CiOl£)©t0H-050i>— O5O5H-O50DH-C0K>00CnCT) 

<•^o»oc5e«swo5co^^^ooal^*>.<ito<»co>f^totoco 


15 and under 20 




•— — — to — to H- — — to to — CO to 

■^•<*ktn*>c5to^«5totooooa5if^oohfc^.*».a>c300-^ 

ti.i'COOO*'- 05 — COOiaiOOCDCOCOWOl^-OlOiOl 


20 and under 30 


o 
a 

c 


rfk — CJODOOCO- 00>^CJ — ^OSOOOCntOtOOQOlC^tfl 

oocn — ^:^niocotn — otooo>r>-aotO!0 — ojoooDo-. 


30 and under 40 


CO 

CO 

oo 


coaototn^oo — c>05 — — wi^cnCT'O — «oo5 — oio 

■^«t0»i.00;CCn-»JO3QDOC000.f»Cnt0 — OltOOSOlO 


40 and under 50 




— CT- i^tOiJ^- CO — <! tOtOl^.i*>.Cn 05*^050005 
C;i^_.>jl_0>U,tO«50500tO— CO~5lr>-a)-s}CJ<i^C0«O 


50 and under 60 


1^1 


— 1^ — to — CO — to — — lotooo — coco — *>. 

>->.OOiOCOCOtOtOWOOOOCO-^CO;D05050^lOCO 


60 and under 70 


s 

o 


OQ005^SC005O^000l^SOO — O00t0CBO«05«i 


70 and under 80 


5_ 


tOCOCtntn — otO*.otOOCO — — Otfi^OOtOCO 


80 and under 90 


o 

CO 


,. to — — 

QO^O^CntD- Cnt0OO0D<!05 — rf^cntoooscol?. 


Males of all ages. 


o 
in 


to ,-, 
_— _O0tO^- 0!0#>- — 0505 GO — 05.ii.tO 
00050COOSMC;iC;iQOO-Oi-qCT.SS*^tOWM;&OT 


Females &c. 



Antrim & G'n'castle, 

Chambersburg, 

Fannet, 

Green, 

Guilford, 

Hamilton, 

Letterkenny, 

Lurgan, 

Metal, 

Mont'y & Merc'burg, 

Peters, 

Quincy, 

St. Thomas, 

Southampton, 

Warren, 

Wash, & Wa'ns'boro' 


CENSUS OF 

1840 

OF FRANKIIN COUNTY. 
TOWNSHIPS, F.TC. 


©►-t3 — ^>— o>— ©ooo^ooo 


Furnaces. 


O>-OOW03O>— -'OOO^-' — oc 


Forges, rol. mills 


050 H-oc3eoccoo>-"-^^«oo®** 


Flouring mills. 


— o<J01^9H-050Dtn&^H-'0>^5C5^s<c 


Grist mills. 


•f*O^<}0DO5*>. — OlOS^5W«20DO0D 


Saw mills. 


o©o►-OH-oo^9o©oo^^OH- 


Oil mills. 


CO^^t^^^^^tjOiOO — t«— w 


Tanneries. 


^On-tacOCOOCnOO^^^-tSMOW 


Distilleries. 


o^5tn050505^atnw05lf».O0D05 co 

000DOC0<!C»i^tS>*^^>f^^CntnC0i^ 


Horses & Mules 


■t>-Qo;o — c»^(MWCo^^oo>c»oo)•^H- 
eoo^^rfi■M^c>^5^50>f».03Qo«ltoCTltn 


Neat Cattle. 


^«^^o«4^^cocnto^DOoa<05H-^^^l— 
OiOoocoQOOlQotn^5o>tn(r>eo«^o~^ 


Sheep. 


^►-^s^5«lW05^s^-^5r-rfi.co^^ ~j 

•— <0C0O©t3 05^ OW'-MCn^i^Cn 


Swine. 


triQ000©^C000O5>— ^^-Ii^OlsO »- 
^5lfe•©m000000HJO^O5CB•^MCOO»-J 
CCUi0^05UiC^^WWtn©tOMOi 

^5^^(»otn!Cl^^05"-©cDODiocclylC5 


Bushels of 
Wheat. 


w^^^s©4o~:!©>*^«;ollCDC)>— 00 Cj 
^o«504^oo50«^cD^5^ — <i^^f- — 
cow© — C0Cn©'-0i<I>f^tO'.O — tnoo 
©oitDcncncnH-tn— '*>.05t0M00O — 


Bushels of 
Rye. 


0> — tf>.*«.C0O>©W — M»SM>f>-CO — 
■<(H-CDUi^^rfi.O~J-J>(^©.— »^S-'OD 
^00«3O5^UiQ0— C0t!1(£l^^02OO — 

^soo>— o^oiH-oi^t-SH-o — ^05M 

CnUi©cn<!t5<r>©CnWW>(^t5»0©>-- 


Indian corn. 


03tOH-<j«o^*>.©aDeoQO.£>-H-ao >&. 

C0CnQDtnO500«Ct00JtO>*>-O>*'C--tOC 
— OD*>■COtC.050>*^a>0'^5W^<!^CV! 

©05coooo<»l»<oo©ao^3^5cooc;l 


Oats. 


^5 ^^ w oi to 

t;i©0i.f^0©0500©^©0i00©.- 

o©©c©©«^o©05eooo©o© 


Barley. 


to ►- to ►- 4^ 
^5C»^05 CDtn©*^*>.i— totso to 
t;iao©totOif^<ttOit>.©<i<» — #-©~3 
O00-J©t0tn^i-Q0©t;i-Jt0-1©QD 


Bushels of 

Buckwheat. 


«Ot0©O5*.'^t5O5>^CDC5^<!0D M 
— 05<ia0*''^C0CDO^O00-^00CnC0 
•^Olpf»-*»CB«D00©O5©©©Omt0© 
l^tO«lt00D©Q0O5lO— 00©t0~lt3Oi 


Potatoes. 


H- ^^5^K-lOK-H-tOH-tO^-H- CO 

l»*^t0©O;0000*^t0C0WCD0000 CO 

t;ito#«.iOif>.«o©<cootocn^^orf^© 

t^H-i— CntOCO©CD>t:^H-^tOO'—C;itO 


Tons of hay. 


COh--tS»UtO*.<ICO^tOtOtntOCl C5 
00U<Q0OCDC5l0©CD05t0<l-<!C0 ^ 
O5CJ>-f>-O5H-if^WQ0t0O5O>00tn~J©tO 

i^o>cotnt0f-©ai'-05os>— toyio>fe- 


Pounds of wool 
raised. 


to tOtOtOtOCOCO — C0t3*>.C0t0 CI 

*»oocniX)00ooooooincoie'Cotoo» to 

►-00>-©t0-JCn©«3^00tO<!00©»&. 
050>tTt7itSi-'UiOi«0*»>f^»0<00*' 


Value of the 
products of the 
dairy. 



CO 

O 



O 

a 
a 

in 
O 

00 

o 
O 

> 
O 

O 

»— I 
hi 



456 HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY. 

Streams. — In Fannct township, rises a branch of the Tuscarora, runs 
in a northern direction by Concord, and steals its way through the Tus- 
carora mountain and unites with the main branch of the Tuscarora 
creek. Amberson's run rises in the same township, and flows south- 
westwardly through the whole extent of the township and empties into 
the West Branch of the Conococheague creek, the latter of which 
flows south of Tuscarora mountain, through Metal, Peters and Mont- 
gomery townships, and unites, about three miles on this side of the 
Pennsylvania and Maryland line, with the East Branch of the Cono- 
cocheague, receiving in its coarse numerous small tributaries, princi- 
pally on the north, such as Dickey's run, Licking creek, Welsh run 
and a few others ; and affords water power for some fifteen or more 
grist mills, some saw mills, several forges and a furnace. 

The head waters of the Conodoguinett rise in Fannet, Lurgan and 
Letlerkenny townships ; one of these streams rises in Horse Va'ley, 
the other between the Blue mountain and Kittatinny, and unite a few 
miles north west of Roxbury, and in their onward course in Franklin 
county from the dividing tine between Lurgan, Letterkenny and South- 
ampton townships ; receiving several small tributaries, such as Read's 
run, Boyd's run, Spring run and others. 

The East Branch of the Conococheague rises in Adams county, flows 
through Green township, through the borough of Chambersburg ; and 
Its southern course forms the dividing line between Hamilton, Guil- 
ford, St. Thomas, Antrim and Montgomery townships; in its course 
receives many tributaries, such as Falling Spring at Chambersburg, 
Back creek, a considerable stream ; Brown's run ; the West Branch of 
the Conococheague, and then wends its way through Maryland and 
falls into the Potomac river at Williamsport. 

Back creek, a tributary of the above, rises in Hamilton township, 
receiving Rocky Spring, Dickson's run, Campbell's run and a few 
smaller ones in its course, and unites with the East Branch of the 
Conococheague creek at the south west corner of St. Thomas township. 

The Anticturn creek, consists of two main branches, both rising in 
Quincy township, flowing in a southern direction and uniting near 
the Pennsylvania and Maryland line. The Anticturn with its several 
tributaries, affords water power tor some fifteen mills, and several 
forges and furnaces within Franklin county. 

Licking creek, which rises in Bedford county, flows through War- 
ren township and receives Cove run, a little stream that runs the 
whole length ot this township along the south base of the Tuscarora 
mountain. 

Marsh run, which runs southward, separating Washington from An- 
trim township. 

These streams afford an abundant water power to numerous mills, 
viz: to 33 flouring mills, 64 grist mills, 120 saw mills, 7 oil mills, 7 
tailing mills, 9 woollen factories, clover mills, paper mills, &c. 

Natural Curiosities. — A Cave in Peters township was discovered in 
1832, and is graphically described by a writer in the Christian Advo- 
cate. "A few days ago, Mr. Reese, of Peters township, Franklin co., 
living on the base of the North mountain, was about digging for water: 
and as there is a very large spring issuing out of the rocks, at the foot 
of a hill of considerable height, and a kind of sink hole some distance 
above the spring, he thought he could probably come on the stream — 



HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY. 457 

accordingly he commenced digging in the sink hole, and had proceed- 
ed but a few feet, when he could plainly hear the water running, 
seemingly with great rapidity; and at the distance of about twenty 
feet from the surface, came to the water, at the lower extremity of a 
fissure in the rock, which immediately expands into a large and beau- 
tiful cavern, the entrance of which is partially obstructed by loose 
rocks, which after advancing a little distance, entirely disappear, and 
instead of loose rubbish, solid rocks appear with spar of different co- 
lors. In every direction are to be seen the most beautiful icicles — 
stalacliles— suspended from its noble, and in some places, ma- 
jestic ceiling. Concretions without number, and of almost every co- 
lor, size and dimension, are seen pointing downward from the ceiling, 
and inward from the sloping walls — some white, some red, some brown, 
some green, and others as transparent as glass, and all solid as mar- 
ble. They threaten the curious adventurer with being torn to prices 
by their craggy points, if he attempts penetrating any further into it; 
and indeed, in some places he is obliged to proceed in a stooping po- 
sitiou, in order to avoid them. In proceeding up this subterraneous 
passage, you are obliged to walk in the run nearly all the way. 

The run is in some places dry, at the present season of the year. — 
Yet it is evident from the bed of the run and other visible marks ot 
the water, that in some parts of the year the water must flow through 
the different channels in large quantities. Even at this time, there is 
a great deal running through it, but mostly through channels alongside 
the principal one, as is evident from the great noise it makes, in fall- 
ing over the craggy rocks which impede its progress. 

There are in the principal channel several falls, which might very 
properly be denominated cataracts (cdscades) — the extent of the cave 
IS as yet unknown, as it has been but partially explored ; the greatest 
distance any person has been up it, is about eight hundred feet, at 
which distance there was no appearance of its termination. In as- 
cending the cave, the eye is most agreeably struck with its grandeur; 
at every step new wonders present themselves — here is the spar found 
in trees, shrubs, «fec. which makes it have the appearance of a petrifi- 
ed grove — in some places the spar is formed into the likeness of men. 
birds, beasts, <Src., &c., and in one place, raised on a pedestal, is a 
striking resemblance of a half uni'urled (lag. Besides this, there are 
hundreds of other likenesses, which I shall not attempt a description 
of. When we first saw them, we were only surprised at their diversity 
and beauty, but on a more minute examination, we were struck with 
amazement." 

Remains of a Mammoth. — In August 1829 the remains of a mammoth 
were discovered in Path Valley, by Gen. Samuel Dunn. In widening 
his mill race a tooth of about seven feet in length and fourteen inches 
in diameter at the root about which a portion of the jaw bone was 
found. The tusk weighed seventy pounds. Other bones were dis- 
covered at the same time ; but they crumbled to pieces on exposure to 
the air. The enamel of the tusk was firm — the inner part was soften- 
ed, but retained a beautiful whiteness. 

Public Improvoiicnis. — The Cumberland Valley railroad, noticed be- 
fore, extends from Harrisburg to Chambersburg, where it connects 
with the Franklin railroad, extending from Chambersburg to Hagers- 
town in Maryland. 

39 



458 HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY. 

Turnpikes. — The main turnpike road, by the southern route to Pitts- 
burg, passes through this county by way of Shippensburg, Chambers- 
burg, St. Thomas and Loudon, thence onward to Pitlsburg. A vast 
amount of travelling has been done since the road has been made and 
is still doing. 

The following note* taken from the Franklin Repository, being an 
abstract of an account kept by Henry K. F. Mollwitz, keeper of the 
North mountain turnpike gate, leading from Loudon to McConnells- 
town, for the years 1830 and 1834, exhibits at one view the amount of 
travelling, <fec., on the turnpike during those years. It might be added 
that thousands of travellers pass over this turnpike on foot and in 
stages. 

The main turnpike road is intersected by the turnpike from Balti- 
more by way of Gettysburg. In the south and south western part of 
the county another turnpike road passes through the county, which 
branches from the Pittsburg, near McConnellstown.in Bedford county, 
passes south eastward through Mercersburg, by Upton, Greencastle 
and Waynesboro' to Emmettsburg in Maryland and thence to Balti- 
more. 

Common roads are numerous and kept in good condition, except in 
the more monutainuos or rough parts of the county, when the roads 
and the country partake of one common quality. A few bridges, be- 
sides those already erected, are mach wanted. 

Names of Taxablcs of 1751. — Lurgan township, which has since been 
divided and subdivided: Alexander Culbertson Alexander Walker 
Archibald Machan Arthur Miller Aivard Terrence Abraham Wier 
Andrew Murphey Andrew Neal Andrew Baird jr Alexander Mitchel 
Archibald Campbell Andrew Finley Alexander McNutt Benjamir> All- 
worth Charles McGlea Christian Irwin Charles Stewart David Watson. 
David Heron David Paxon Dennis Cotter David Johnson David Mc- 
Cright Francis Heron Francis Brain Gustavus Henderson Geo Mitchel 
Gavin Mitchel Geo Gin ley Geo Pumroy Humphrey Montgomery Hugh 
Wier Henry Machan Joseph Culbertson John Finley sen John Kirk- 
patrick John Kirkpatrick jr Joseph Thomson John Jones John Weyley 
John Finley esq John Miller esq James McCamont James Brecken- 
ridge John Kerr John Erwin James Norrice John McKeaney John Mc- 
Call James McCall John Lowrie James Henderson John McCrea John 
McKee John Cesna James Callwell John Wier John Crawford John 
Johnson John Cumins John Mitchel John Boyd James Patterson James 
Boall John Rippie James Mitchel John Mitchel jr John Leckey Jacob 
Donelson John McCrea John Waid James Tait John Finley sawyer 
Josiah Ramage James Kirkpatrick John Machon James Boyd John 
Wilson John Gaston John Kenedy John Evans Joshua Henderson 
James Culbertson Joseph McKibben James Reed sen Isaac Grier John 
McNaught James Henry John Graham James Ortan James Reed jr 

* During the year 1830 
Broad wheeled wagons 6641 

Narrow wheeled " 495 

Single horse " 761 

Carriages 138 

Two horse wagons 318 

Gigs 18 



1834 




1830 


1834 


6359 


Riding horses 


3116 


2817 


374 


Draft horses 


39824 


42330 


1243 


Heads of cattle. 


5834 


6457 


107 


Sheep 


2180 


2852 


779 


Hogs 


1180 


40 


00 


Corts 


18 


00 



HISTORY OP FRANKLIN COUNTY. 459 

James Reed John McCappin James Sharp James Finley James Lawder 
Jamci Allison John Montgomery John McCombs Laird Burns Mahan 
McCombs Mat McCreary Nathaniel Wilson Nathaniel Cellar Oliver 
Culbertson Oliver Wallace Robert Kerr Robert McConnell Robert 
Gabie Robert Boyd Robert Long Robert Scott Robert L^rie Robert Mil- 
ler Robert Finley Ranald Slack Robert Machan Samuel Culbertson 
Samuel Cochran Samuel Rippie Samuel Buckenstos Samuel Jordan 
Samuel Laird Steven CoUwell Thomas Jack Thomas Urie Thomas 
McComb Thomas Neal Thomas Gner Thomas Minor Thomas Alex- 
ander William Kerr William Erwin William Young William McCon- 
nell William Barr William Reed William Linn William Linn jr Wni 
Cox VVilliain Greenlee William Turner William Devanner William 
Mitchel William Breckenridge William McNutt William Jack Wm 
Withrovv William McCall William Baird turner Wm Baird at Rock- 
spring William Woods William Cochran William Chambers William 
Walker William Guthrie Robert Reed cordwainer Nathaniel Johnson 
Davi'.i Linn John Grier Mr Reily at Mr Hoops David Carson John 
Kennedy Charles Murray John Hawthorn John Burns Joseph Mitchel 
Arthur Graham— i-Vecwioi; Geo McKeaney James Hawthorn George 
Ross William Milrea Morgan Linch Charles Moor John Tait. 

Antrim, 1751. — Samuel Smith Joseph Waller Jas. Jonston Wm. Ali- 
son Wm McGaw Sam. McFaran John Reynolds Wm. Grimes John 
Mitchel Thomas Brown John Scott Robt. Southerland Wm. McAlmo- 
rey Wm. Mearns John Smith Wm. McClean Geo. Martin Wid. Leeper 
Jacob Batierly Peler Leeper Wm. Erwin John Mouk James Scott Jas. 
Ramsey John Mooihead .John Chambers Jacob Piskacker Kath. Leath- 
erman Edward Nichols Paulus Harick Dietrich Lauw Nicholas Gulp 
James Lilou David Scott John McMath Thomas Patterson George Cai- 
sil John Pritchet Wm. Dunbar Thomas Poa Wm. McBriar David Mc- 
Briar Thos. Nisbet Wid. Adams Jas. McBride Josh. McFaran David 
McClellan John Gyles Henry Pauling Abraham Gabriel John Staret 
David Kennedy John Willocks Wm. Clark Wm. Cross Henry Stall 
Peter Johnston Thomas Long James McClanahan John Roal Joshua 
Coal Thos. Davis Josh. Crunkleton jr. Robt. Harkness Wm, Hall Hugh 
McClellan Lorence Galocher Wm. Rankin John Potter Wm. Ramsey 
Nath. Harkness Josh. Alexander Patrick Mclntire John Roass Arch'd 
McClean Jas. Paile John Davies Peter Craul Henry Dutch Henry Ke- 
fort Mathias Ringer Kath. Thomson Jacob Snider Wm. Shauon Thos. 
Grogan George Gordon Samuel Monagh lacob Snively John Crunkle- 
ton Anthony Thomson Wm. McClellan John Moor John McCoon Jos. 
Roddey John McDowell Alex. Miller Jas. Ker Christian Hicks John 
Stoaner Wm. Brotherton Robt. Erwin David Duncan James Jack Mo- 
ses Thomson James McKee Robt. Hamilton Wm. Patrick James Fin- 
ley Pat. McClarin Jas. Pattro John Wallace Adam Hoops. Freemen .- 
Jacob Gabriel Hugh Galocher E. Alexander W. Campbel Alex. Cook, 
James Ross Adam Murray Jas. Young Hugh McKee Daniel McCoy 
Daniel McCowan Chas. White Wm. McGaughy Jas. McGowan John 
Snively Joseph Morgan. 

Peiers' township, 1751. — Daniel Alexander Andrew Alexander Wil'm 
Armstrong Hez. Alexander Adam Armstrong Arthur Alexander John 
Baird James Blair Alexander Brown Thomas Barr Ann Black, widow 
Thomas Boal Samuel Brown William Barnett Joshua Bradner John 
Black .lohn Baird jas. Black widow Brown Robert Barnet David Bow- 



460 HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY. 

cl John Blair George Brown Hugh Kerrell Wni. Clark Robert Clogage 
William Campbel Michael Carsell Samuel Chapman Thomas Calhoun 
Michael Campbell Robert Crawford Patrick Clark'Wm. Campbel Ro- 
bert Culbertson Charles Campbel Thomas Clark John Dickey james 
Dickey widow Donelson Wm. Cunwoody John Docherty Samuel Da- 
vis David Davis james Davis widow Davis Philip Davis Joseph Dun- 
Jop Arthur Donelson David Davis Nath. Davis josh. Davis Thomas 
Davis joshua Edwards John Erwin Malhew Erwin .lames Erwin wid- 
ow Farier john Flanaghin james Flanaghin Moses Fisher james Gal- 
breath john Gillmore widow Garison Samuel Gilespie james Galaway 
JOsh. Hariss john Hariss Jeremiah Hariss Charles Hariss widow Hus- 
ton James Holland John Huston john Hamilton joseph How John Ho- 
Jyday William Holyday Wm. Hanbey David Huston John Hill james 
Holiday Alexander Hutchison Messech james Wm. Lowrie Henry 
Larkan Wm. Maxwell james Mitchell james Sloan john Morlan John 
Martin james Mercer john Mercer Wm. Marshall Wm. Moor widow 
McFarland Andrew Morison John McDowell Alexander McKee Robt. 
McClellan Wm. McDowell jr. Wm. McClellan John McClellan Andw. 
Moor Wm. McDowell james McConne) Robert McCoy Wm. Mclllhal- 
]on jas. McMahon james Murphy Wm. Morrison james McClellan 
Robt. Newell Victor Neeley james Orr Thos. Orbison Thomas Owins 
Kathan Orr Matthew Patton john Palton Francis Patterson Dav. Rees 
.lames Rankin Alex. Robertson Wm. Semple Richard Stevens Andrew 
Simpson Wm. Shanon Hugh Shanon Wid. Scott Alex. Staret Collin 
Spence john Taylor jas. Wright Wm. Wilson john Wilson john Win- 
ton james Wilkey james Wilson Math. Wallace Moses While John 
Waason Joseph Williams John Woods Joseph White Thos. Waddel. 
Freemen: Samuel Templeton Wm. Taylor james Wilson jas. Wallace 
And. Willabee Oliver Wallace Robert Anderson Gayin Cloggaga Robt 
Banefield David Alexander james Coyle james Brown Alex. McCon- 
nel james Carswell james Blair Alex. Hutchison Ed. Horkan William 
Gueen john Laird David Wallace. 

Guilford township 1751. — Henry Thomson Charles McGill George 
Cook James Jack Patrick Jack Wm Adams John Henderson Solomon 
Patterson Wm McKinney Nathaniel Simpson James Lindsay John 
Mushet Benjamin Gass Benjamin Chambers John Anderson Frederick 
Craft Peter Coaset John O'Cain John Noble Wm Newjant John Lind- 
say James Crawford Edward Crawford Marjant Duff Thomas Baird 
Robert Patrick John Forsyth — Freemen: Robert Uart Henry Black 
Archibald Duglass Alexander McAIister. 

Hamilton township 1752. — Joseph Armstrong John Eaton Wm Mc- 
Cord Josh Eaton James Eaton Samuel McCarnish Thomas Patterson 
John Campbell Josh Barnet Jas Barnet Thos Barnet jr James Denny 
Jas Hamilton Patrick Knox Samuel Moorhead John Swan Geo Rey- 
nolds las Boyd Robt Donelson Thos Barnet Widow Swan Robt Eliot 
Johnston Eliot John Hindman Wm Rankin And Brattan Adam Carson 
Aaron Watson Josh Blain John Dixon Math Dixon Math Arthur John 
Thorn Edward Johnston Wm Boal Joshua Pepper Robert Barnet Al- 
exander Hamilton Wm Eckery John Galaway — Freemen: Josh McCa* 
mish Dennis Kease. 



CHAPTER XXXI. 

FALLING SPRINGS, CHAMBERSBURG, MERCERSBURG, &e. 

Falling Spring settlement commenced by Benjamio Chambers — Cham- 
bers' mill — Fort at Falling Springs — Young's letter — Chambersburg 
— Synopsis of census of 1840 — Freshet at Cumberland 1831 — Early 
incidents, «Stc., by Geo. Chambers — Mercersburg — Histcy of Theo- 
logical Seminary and College — Incidents, &c. &c. 

Falling Spring, is the name by which the first settlement in the wes- 
part of Lancaster county, was known for many years. As early a-- 
1730, Benjamin and Joseph Chambers, two brothers, visited a spot at 
the confluence of Falling Spring and Conococheague creeks. Benja- 
min, a younger of several brothers, settled permanently at the Springs, 
erected a house, which was, while he had been absent on a visit, re- 
duced to ashes, " for the sake of the nails," by being set on fire by 
sone unprincipled hunter — an act which the Indians at that time, 
though still numerous, would not have been guilty of; for with them 
Mr. Chambers was on terms of intimacy. 

Mr. Chambers had not been here long before he erected a mill to 
meet the wants of the times. 

When the Indians had become troublesome, after Gen. Braddock's 
defeat, Mr. Chambers erected a private Fort, garrisoned it with a few 
men;provided with some cannons. Which on one occasion, he refuseil 
to deliver to Col. Armstrong, who speaks in consequence of the refu- 
sal, in unkind terms of him in a letter to the Governor. 

It appears from a number of letters in the State archives, which I 
have examined, that Mi. Chambers was a ready writer. He was fre- 
quently called on to write ; and he never failed to express himself 
freely. (See his letters p. 90, &c.) 

Mr. James Young, in a letter to Gov. Denny makes mention of 
Chambers' private lort. 

Harris' Ferry October 17, 1756. 

* * In our journey to Fort Littletown, we stopped at Mr. Cham- 
bers' mill, ten miles beyond Shippensburg, towards McDowell's, where 
he has a good private Fort and on an exceeding good situation to be 
made very defenceable, but what I think of great consequence to the 
government, is, that in said fort are two four pound cannon mounted, 
and nobody but a few country people to defend it. If the enemy 
should take that fort they would naturally bring those cannon against 
Shippensburg and Carlisle, I therefore would presume to recommend. 
It to your Honor, either to have the cannon taken from thence or a;, 
proper garrison stationed there. Pardon this liberty from 

Chambehsbuug, post town, borough and seat of justice of Franklin 
county, at the junction of Falling Spring and Conococheague creeks, 

39* 



462 HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY. 

situated in north latitude 39 deg. 57 min., 137 miles west of Philadel- 
phia; 77 north west of Baltimore, 92 from Washington city, 48 south 
west of Harrisburg, population 1820, 2300 ; 1830, 2794; 1840, 3239— 
within the borough at present about 3600. It is one of the most plea- 
sant inland towns in Pennsylvania — it is in a prosperous and flourish- 
ing condition — in the midst of a healthy, fertile, highly cultivated 
country. It was laid out in 1764, by Benjamin Chambers. 

Synapsis of the Census of 1840. — White males, under 5, 230; 5 and un- 
der 10, 169; 10 and under 15, 131; 15 and under 20, 145; 20 and under 
.30, 315; 30 and under 40, 188; 40 and under 50, 107; .50 and under 60, 
59; 60 and under 70, 35; 70 and under 80, 18; 80 and under 100, 4. 

White females, under 5, 267; 5 and under 10, 187; 10 and under 15, 
164; 15 and under 20, 182; 20 and under 30, 336; 30 and under 40, 188; 
40 and under .50, 1 16; 50 and under 60, 67; 60 and under 70, 37; 70 and 
under 80, 18; 80 and under 90, 8. 

Colored males, under 10, 23; 10 and under 24, 28; 24 and under 36. 
26; 36 and under 55, 20; 55 and under 100, 9. 

Colored females under 10, 26; 10 and under 24, 58; 24 and under 36. 
41; 36 and under 55, 24; 55 and under 100, 12; 100 and upwards, 1. 

Of the above population 3 were engaged in agriculture, 434 in man- 
uiactures and trades, one in the navigation of the ocean, 36 in the 
learned professions and engineers, one pensioner, 2 insane and idiots 
at private charge, 4 academies and grammar schools, 120 scholars. 
In 1844 there were in operation 11 public schools, open 75 months, 5 
male and 8 female teachers, 305 male and 316 female scholars; 58 of 
whom were learning German. The district tax raised $1088.86 ; State 
appropriation $988.00; cost of instruction $1,713.33; fuel and contin- 
gencies. Several Female Seminaries are in successful operation. 

The public buildings are a splendid court house erected in 1843, ai 
a cost of $44,545.00, built of bricks, with an Ionic colonade in front, 
surmounted by a beautiful cupola, with a statue of Benjamin Frank- 
lin to crown it ; a substantially built jail, a large brick structure erec- 
ted at a cost of $30,000 ; a banking house, a market. house, a spacious 
academy, ten churches, viz : Associate Reformed, Presbyterian, Ger- 
man Reformed, two Lutheran, (one of which was originally built by 
the German Reformed) Methodist Episcopal, Catholic, United Breth- 
ren, and two African churches ; there are four newspapers published 
here, viz : The Weekly Messenger, edited by the Rev. R. S. Fisher ; 
The Zeit-Schrift (semi-monthly) edited by Rev. B. S. Schneck; The 
Repository & Whig, edited by Joseph Pritts, Esq., and The Chambers- 
burg Times, edited by F. G. May, Esq. These papers are all conduc- 
ted with more than ordinary ability. There are a nnmbor of well 
kept hotels and houses of entertainment kept here. 

The water power here is unsurpassed ; east of the Alleghany, Fall- 
ing Spring and the Conococheague afford an abundance of water pow- 
er, and drive 2 flouring mills, 2 fulling mills, a straw paper mill, a 
cotton and woollen manufactory, oil mill, carding machines, and the 
machinerv of the most celebrated edge tool factory in the State. It is 
estimated that the water power in, and within 5 miles of Chambers- 
burg, is equal to the propelling 100 pair of mill stones. In times of 
excessive freshets these streams become flush, and transcend their 
usual bounds. This was the case in the summer of 1831, when the 
damage done by the mighty rush of these waters was estimated at 
forty thousand dollars. 



HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY. 463 

The following, written in 1832, by the Hon. George Chambers, con 
tains many interesting incidents touching the early settlements of 
Falling Springs and Conococheague — 

" James, Robert, Joseph and Benjamin Chambers, 4 brothers, emi- 
grated from the county of Antrim, in Ireland, to the province of Penn- 
sylvania, between ihe years 1726 and 1730. They settled and built a 
mill shortly after, at the mouth of Fishing creek, now in Dauphin co., 
on the Susquehanna, and appropriated a tract of very fine land at that 
place, which was lately owned and occupied by Archibald McAlister; 
though the land office of Pa. was not open for the sale of lands west 
of the Susquehanna, as they were not purchased of the Indians till 
Oct. 1736, yet the proprietary offices and agents were disposed to en- 
courage settlements west of that river with the consent of the Indians, 
who were conciliated by the settlers. These settlements were incited 
and recognised, though without official grants, in order to resist the 
encroachments of the Marylanders, on what was considered part of 
the province of Pa. This policy, and the fine country forming that 
part of the Kittatinny valley extending from the Susquehanna, at the 
mouth of Conodoguinet, along the waters of the beautiful Conoco- 
cheague to the Potomac, induced men of enterprise to seek and locate 
desirable situations for water works and farms, in the valleys of tho^e 
two streams and of Yellow Breeches creek. These adventurous broth- 
ers were among the first to explore and settle in this valley. James 
made a settlement at the head of Green Spring, near Newville, Cum- 
berland ; Robert at the head of Middle Spring, near Shippensburg; and 
Joseph and Benjamin at the confluence of Failing Spring and Conoco- 
cheague creeks, where Chambersburg is situated. These settlements 
and locations were made about or before 1730. Bv an arrangement 
among the brothers, Joseph returned to their property at the mouth of 
Fishing creek, and Benjamin, the younger brother, improved his set- 
tlement at the Falling Spring. He built a hewed log house, which he 
covered with lapped shingles, fastened by nails, a style of building out 
of the common mode of round logs and clapboard roofs secured by 
beams. Some time after, Benjamin being induced to visit the east 
side of the Susquehanna, left his house unoccupied for a short tune, 
and on his return, he found it burned to ashes. This was afterwards 
ascertained to be the work of an unprincipled hunter, who was in- 
duced to do it for the sake of the nails, which at that day, in this wild 
region, were esteemed no ordinary prize. 

"Benjamin prosecuted anew his improvements, building houses, 
clearing lands, and soon after the commission from the proprietary go- 
vernment to Samuel Blunston, allowing licences for the settlement of 
lands west of the Susquehanna, on 30th March, 1734, Benjamin ob- 
lained from Blunston a license authorizing and securing his settlement 
by a grant of lour hundred acres of land at the Falling Spring's mouth 
on both sides of the Conococheague, for the conveniency of a grist 
mill and plantation, then Lancaster county. Having acquired the art 
and business of a millwright, he built himself, immediately, a saw mill 
at the mouth of Falling Spring. This was an important improvement 
lo himself and others disposed to settle in the surrounding wilderness. 
In a few years, he erected a flouring mill ; an accommodation which 
contributed much to the comfort of the early settlers, and had consid- 
erable influence in inducing settlements in the vicinity. 



464 HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY. 

" Benjamin Chambers was about 21 years of age when he made hii 
settlement on the Falling Spring. He had, when living east of the 
Susquehanna, been attracted to the spot by a description he re- 
ceived from a hunter, whs had observed the fine waterfall in one 
of his excursions through the valley. He was the first white settler 
in what is now Franklin county. From his acquaintance with the 
business of a millwright, and the use and value of water power, 
his attention was directed to advantageous situations for water- 
works. He married shortly after his settlement a Miss Patterson, 
residing near Lancaster, who was the mother of his eldest son, 
James. 

"He maintained a friendly intercourse with the Indians in his 
vicinity, who were attached to him ; with them he traded, and had 
so much of their confidence and respect that they did not injure or 
offer to molest him. On one occasion, being engaged in haymaking 
in his meadow below Chambersburg, where the foundry and brick- 
yards now are, he "observed some Indians secretly stalking in the 
thickets around the meadow. Suspecting some mischievous design, 
he gave them a severe chase, in the night, with some dogs, across 
..he creek and through the woods, to the great alarm of the Indians, 
who afterwards acknowledged they had gone to the meadow for the 
purpose of taking from Benjamin his watch, and carrying off a ne- 
gro woman whom he owned ; and who, they thought, would be useful 
to raise corn for them : but they declared that they would not have 
hurt the colonel. 

"He used his influence with his acquaintances to settle in his 
neighborhood, directing their attention to desirable and advantageous 
situations for farms. His first wife lived but a few years. Some 
time afterwards he married a Miss Williams, the daughter of a 
Welsh clergyman, residing in Virginia. She was born in Wales, and 
brought over to this country when very young. By her he had 7 
children, viz: Ruhannah, married to Dr. Colhoun-William, Benjamin- 
jane, married to Adam Ross — Joseph, George — and Hetty, married to 
Wm. M. Brown, Esq. Col. Benjamin Chambers was commissioned a 
justice of the peace, and also a colonel of the militia under the royal 
government at an early period. As an arbitrator he settled many con- 
troversies between his neighbors, and from his reputation for judg- 
ment and integrity, he was appealed to for direction and advice by the 
early setllers. He gratuitously prescribed and administered medicine 
to many, and as there was no regular physician in the neighborhood. 
It is said he was called upon to bleed and extract teeth for the relief of 
his acquaintances. 

" During the controversy between Lord Baltimore and the Penns, 
relating to the boundary between the provinces, Benjamin Cham- 
bers, who will hereafter be designated as Col. Chambers, was pre- 
vailed on to visit England to assist by his knowledge and testimony 
:n terminating this controversy, which was embarrassing and protract- 
ing the settlement of these provinces. 

"From England he visited Ireland, his native soil, and prevailed 
on a number of acquaintances to accompany him, with their families-, 
and settle in his neighborhood, having afforded them assistance. As 
the western Indians, after Braddock's defeat, in 1755, became trouble- 
some, and made incursions east of the mountains, killing and making 



HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY. 465 

prisoners of many of the white inhabitants, Col. Chambers, for the se- 
curity of his family and his neighbors, erected, where the borough of 
Chambersbarg now is, a large stone dwelling-hoHse, surrounded by 
the water from Falling Spring, and situated where the large straw 
paper-mill now is. The dwelling house, for greater security against 
the attempts of the Indians to fire it, was roofed with lead. The dwell- 
ings and the mills were surrounded by a stoccade fort. This fort, with 
the aid of fire-arms, a blunderbuss and swivel, was so formidable to 
the Indian parties who passed the country, that it was seldom assailed, 
and no one sheltered by it was killed or wounded ; although in the 
country around, at different times, those who ventured out on their 
farms, were surprised and either slaughtered or carried off prisoners, 
with all the horrors and aggravations of savage warfare. 

"A man by the name of McKinney, who had sought shelter with his 
family in the fort about 1756, ventured out in company with his son 
to visit his dwelling aud plantation, where the Hollowell paper-mill 
is, on the creek below Chambersburg. They were discovered, how- 
ever, by the Indians, and both killed and scalped, and their dead bo- 
dies brought to the fort and buried. Col. Chambers was active in 
organizing the militia, and was of much assistance to Gen. Forbes 
in 1758, in giving him information and aiding him in the opening 
of a road, as well as affording him supplies in his march through 
the valley, and across the mountains, in his campaign. His saw 
and flour mills were of such accommodation and notoriety in the 
Conococheague settlement, that they were long known and spoken 
of for a great distance around as the milh. The first flour-mill, built 
in part with logs, was burned, and a stone mill was afterwards er- 
t'Cted by the colonel, part of the walls of which are incorporated iu 
those of the fulling-mill and cotton factory of Thomas Chambers. 

"In 1764, Col. Chambers laid out the town of Chambersburg ad- 
joining his mills. The intercourse with the western country being at 
that time very limited, and most af the trade and travel along the val- 
ley to the south, he was induced to lay his lots in that direction, and 
the town did not extend beyond the creek to the west. Some of the old 
trees of his orchard are still standing (1832) on the west of the creek, 
on the grounds of joseph Chambers and Mr. King's heirs. The in- 
creasing trade with the western country, after the revolution, produced 
an extension of the town on the west side of the creek, which was lo- 
cated by Capt. Chambers, son of the colonel, about 1791. The first 
stone house erected in the town is still standing at the corner, built by 
J. jack, about 1770, and now owned by L. Denig, Esq. The first courts 
holden in the county were in this house, up stairs and on one occasion 
the crowd was so great as to strain the beams and fracture the walls, 
causing great confusion and alarm to the court and bar. 

"Chambersbttrg remained but a small village until after the erection 
of Franklin into a separate county in 1784, since which period it has 
progressively improved. 

" Col. Chambers had appropriated to the use of the public for a bu- 
rial-ground a romantic cedar grove on the banks of the creek. This 
spot still retains some of the beauties of nature and rural scenery. 
This, with some additional grounds, he conveyed by deed of gift to P. 
Varen and others, as trustees, on the 1st January, 1768, in trust for 
the Presbyterian congregation of the Falling Spring, now professing 



466 HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY. 

amd adhering to, and that shall hereafter adhere to and profess the 
Westminster profession of faith, and the mode of church government 
therein contained, and to and for the use of a meeting-house or Pres- 
byterian church, session house, school-house, burying-place, grave- 
yard, and such religious purposes. Of this congregation he was an 
efficient, active and attentive member. He also continued a member 
of the board of trustees until 1787, when, on account of his advanced 
age and infirmities, he asked leave to resign. 

"The first settlers who were possessed of farms, were mostly 
emigrants from the north of Ireland, and members of the Presbyte- 
rian church. It would seem that the Falling Spring congregation 
were more numerous in 1786 than in 1832, though at the latter period 
the population of Chambersburg was tenfold that of 1786. After the 
revolutionary war and peace, a German population supplanted the 
first settlers, and possessed themselves of most of their choice plan- 
tations by purchase, and the families and descendants of these settlers 
moved west of the mountains. 

"At the commencement of the revolutionary war, in 1775, Col. Cham- 
bers was so infirm and advanced in years, being then about 70 years 
of age, as to be incapable of the fatigues and exposure of a campaign 
so distant as the heights of Boston. Patriotism shone forth in 
his family. His eldest sun, James, raised a company of infantry from 
the neighborhood, which he commanded as captain, and in 1775 
marched, accompanied by his younger brothers William and Ben- 
jamin as cadets, to join the American army, then encamped on the 
iiigh ground of Boston, where the royal army was besieged: (Wil- 
liam was about 22 years old and Benjamin 20). His three sons re- 
mained in the army during that campaign; James having been ad- 
vanced to the rank of colonel, and William and Benjamin to that 
•I captain. They were also with the army during the arduous and 
; I ving campaigns of '76-'77 in the Jerseys, as well as at the battles 
of Brandywine and Germantown in 1778. On account of the infirmity 
ol their father, and the embarrassed situation of his property and pe- 
cuniary affairs, which had been deprived of the necessary attentions 
of the young men, the younger brothers, William and Benjamin, re- 
turned home and attended to the farm and mills. They occasionally, 
however, assisted in the pursuit of Indians who had dared at times io 
make incursions upon the settlements about Bedford and Huntingdon. 

•'James remained in the army until the close of the revolutionary 
war, and afterwards was appointed a general of the militia, a brigade 
of whom, including a number of volunteers he commanded in the army 
to suppress the Western or Whiskey insurrection in Pennsylvania in 
1794. ^ 

"Shortly after the peace of 1783, William, Benjamin and George, 
erected a furnace in the Path valley, called Mt. Pleasant, the oldest 
furnace in the county. None of them had any experience in the bu- 
siness, but by industry, perseverance, and judgment, they were suc- 
cessful, and established in the woods an extensive manufactory of iron 
which was not only profitable to themselves, but highly advantageous 
to a considfrable extent of country. 

" Col. Benjamin Chambers, the father of the settlement, died 17th 
Feb, 1788, aged 80 years. Jane, his wife, died in 1795, aged 70 : Capt. 
Benjamin Chambers died in 1813. 



HISTORY OF FRANKLIN *COUNTY. 467 

" Col. James Chambers erected a forge where Loudon now is, af- 
ter the revolution, and with his son Benjamin, and son-in-law A. 
Dunlap, Esq. erected a furnace about a mile from Loudon. 

"In 1760 Col. Benjamin Chambers lived in a small log house 
near the mill-race at the west end of the garden of George Cham- 
bers, near the alley and race. 

"From old Henry Snider, aged 75, in 1834, Mr. Chambers learn- 
ed that his father, Peter Snider, came to the county before 1760 

That he was born where he now lives, in 1759. 

"A man by the name of Somerfield kept the first store on the 
northwest corner of Front and Queen streets. 

"The first tavern was kept by Robert Jack, in the-little log house 
which stood where the Chambersburg bank now is." 

Mehcersbchg, a post town and borough, in Montgomery township, 
on the turnpike road leading from McConnellstown to Waynesboro", 
fifteen miles south west from Chambersburg, eighty-three miles north 
west from Washington city. The town, for its elevated situation, com- 
manding view of picturesque scenery, fertility of soil of the surround- 
ing country, salubrity of air, can vie with any in the State. 

The town was laid out about the year 1780, by Mr. Smith, and named 
in honor of Conrad Mercer, a distinguished officer of the revolution- 
ary army. It was incorporated as a borough by an act passed in April 
1831, and contains about 150 dwellings, many of them large and com- 
modious ; five churches; Presbyterian, Lutheran, Seceder, Methodist 
and 2 German German Reformed ; one of which has recently been 
erected. 

Marshall College, the Theological Seminary of the German Refor- 
med Church, and affiliated institutions are located here. The towr; 
contains 4 dry goods stores, 1 grocery, 2 druggists, 3 confectionaries,4 
tailor shops, 6 shoe makers, 2 hatters, 2 wagon makers, 1 coach ma- 
ker, 1 plough maker, 2 weavers, 2 silversmiths, 3 butchers, 2 liverv 
stables, 2 oyster cellars, 4 tan yards, I distillery, 1 pottery, 3 hotels, 4 
rough carpenters, 6 house joiners, 4 cabinet makers, 5 chair makers, 
4 Saddlers, 4 coopers, 4 blacksmiths, 1 public school, 1 Female Semi- 
nary, 1 flouring mill, 2 brick yards, 7 physicians. 

A weekly paper is published here by Messrs. McKinstry and Doyle. 
The paper is called "The Mercersburg Visitor." 

Theological ScMiNAnr of tbe Ger. Ref. Church. — This Institution 
was established originally at Carlisle. It went into operation first in 
the spring of 1825, with five students, under the care of the Rev. Dr. 
Lewis Mayer, who had been previously elected Professor of Theology 
by the Synod of the Church, At the same time the Rev. James R. 
Reily, under an appointment from the Board of Directors sailed for 
Europe, to collect funds and books for the infant interest. His mission 
proved on the whole quite successful, and resulted particularly in the 
acquisition of a respectable library. 

Great remissness however was shown at home, in carrying forward 
the undertaking. For years it was left to languish, in the midst of 
difficulties which continually threatened its dissolution, and severely 
tried the faith and patience of the excellent man who was placed at 
Its head. 

After a short time, the Institution was transferred to York. Here a 
Grammar School wat established in connection with it, in the year 



468 HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY. 

1832. This lell under the care particularly of Dr. Frederick A. Rauch, 
who had been called in to assist the Professor of Theology, in his ar- 
duous work. To the hands of the same gentleman, was committed 
subsequently the department of Biblical Literature in the Seminary. 

It was resolved finally, in view of a liberal offer made from the 
place, to locale the institutions permanently at Mercersburg. The 
Grammar School accordingly was transferred to this village in the 
fall of 1835 ; where it was raised the following year to ihe dignity of a 
regular College. In proper season afterwards, the same transfer took 
place in the case of the Seminary also. The removal was followed 
in the course of a short time, by the resignation of the ProfesEor, 
whose name had been identified with all its fortunes from the begin- 
ning. 

The vacancy thus created was filled by the appointment and call, 
on the part of the Synod, of the Rev. Dr. John W. Nevin, who was 
Professor at the time in the Western Theological Seminary at Pitts- 
burg. He came to Mescersburg in the spring of the year 1840, and 
has been actively engaged in the service of institution from that time 
to the present. 

A great calamity was sustained the Allowing year, in the death of 
the Professor of Biblical Literature, who was at the same time Presi- 
dent of the College. By this event, the Seminary was left again with 
only a single Professor, a-; at the beginning; a diflSculty for which no 
remedy has been provided until quite recently. 

Early in the year 1843, at a special meeting of the Synod convened 
for the purpose, at Lebanon, a call was made out for the Rev. Dr 
Krummacher, of Elberfeld, in Prussia, the distinguished author of 
Elijah the Fishbite, and other popular works, to occupy what is term- 
ed the German Professorship of Theology in the Institution; and two 
members of the Synod, the Rev. Dr.Hoffeditz and the Rev. Mr. Schneck 
crossed the Atlantic soon after, as the commissioners of the Church, 
to place the call in his hands. This movement served greatly to bring 
both the Seminary and the Charch into notice, both in Germany and in 
this country. Dr. Krummacher found himself reluctantly constrained 
to decline the invitation. The great object of the mission however, 
may be said to have been secured notwithstanding. After special in- 
quiry and conference with the best advisers in Germany, the delegates 
returned prepared to recommend a different man for the vacant station; 
and the consequence was the unanimous election, at the meeting of 
the Synod in Winchester, in the fall of 1843, of the Rev. Dr. Philip 
Schaf, private lecturer at the time in the University of Berlin, to fill 
the post. A call accordingly was soon after forwarded to him, and ac- 
ceptpd. He reached the country in July 1844, and is now laboring in 
the Seminary as Professor of Church History and Sacred Literature. 
His lectures are delivered in the German tongue. 

i.- The Seminary buildings are handsomely situated on an elevated 
piece of ground, a short distance east of the town ; and by the traveller 
from the west in particular, may be seen with great advantage, a great 
way off. They consist of a main edifice 120 feet in length and 4 stories 
high, and two handsome dwelling houses for professors. The front of 
the main building is rendered more imposing, by a portico standing 
out from the central section, with large columns carried up to the roof. 
The property altogether may be rated at a value of twenty-five thous- 
and dollars. 



HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY. 469 

The Library of the Seminary is estimated at about 7000 volumes. 
Many of these are very valuable. The proportion of English books is 
comparatively small. 

The number of students in attendance at the institution has been lat- 
terly from fifteen to twenty. The regular course of study extends over 
a period of two years and a half, embracing the branches that are usu- 
ally taught in institutions of this kind. To the students the instruction 
IS all free ; and the opportunities of the Seminary are open alike to all 
denominations, so far as there may be a disposition in any case to em- 
ulate them. 

Marshall College. — Originally, as we have already seen, a mere 
dependency of the Theological Seminary, the College has since risen 
to high separate importance, and bids fair yet to throw its parent com- 
pletely into the shade. No institution perhaps in the country, has 
within the same short period of time exhibited the same measure of 
success, or accumulated an equal amount of promise. 

Marshall College, (so called in compliment to the memory of the 
late Chief Justice of that name,) was founded, under a charter from 
Legislature of Pennsylvania, in the year 1836. It sprang, as before 
mentioned, from the High School established in connection with the 
Seminary of the German Reformed Church; which had been removed 
ten years before from the borough of York to Mercersburg. It stands 
of course in intimate connection with the Seminary still. The prima- 
ry object of the two institutions may be regarded as one and the same. 
The church needs ministers, and she is concerned to have them prop- 
erly educated for their high and responsible work. It is her zeal for 
this interest which has given birth to Marshall College. Harvard Uni- 
versity, Yale College, and Nassau Hall, owe their origin to a similar 
zeal mainly, on the part of the religious denominatious by which they 
were founded. 

The College is the daughter of the Church, and as such consecrated 
to the service of religion as well as letters. Like the Institutions which 
have just been named however, it aims at more than simply to meet 
the want which is felt with regard to the sacred ministry. It is design- 
ed to promote the interest of education generally within the bounds of 
the German church. At the same time its privileges are not restricted 
in any way to these limits. Though founded by the Reformed church 
and looking to it mainly of course for patronage and support, its con- 
stitution is altogether catholic and free, as much so as that of any of 
the colleges of New England. The church as such exercises no eccle- 
siastical supervision over it, more than the Presbyterian Church does 
over Nassau Hall. 

The Presidency of the Institution at the beginning fell by the election 
of the Board of Trustees, on Dr. Frederick A. Rauch. In point of per- 
sonal dignity, scholarship, and general cultivation, few men could 
have been found more worthy of the station. He had enjoyed and 
improved all the advantages of a thorough and complete education in 
Germany. No one could well be more devoted to the interests of sci- 
ence. For philosophy in particular, his zeal might be said to amount 
to a passion. He was fully at home in the metaphysical speculations 
of modern Germany; beyond all other men probably in this country. 
He was admirably qualified moreover for the business of teaching; 
being full of order himself, and having a happy talent for inspirin°^ 

40 



470 



HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY. 



others, young men especially, with similar animation. All his pupils 
remember him with more than common respect. His interest in the 
college was large and constant, and terminating only with his life. — 
He has left behind him a very favorabie monument of his scholarship 
in his Psychology, or Cinv of Ihc Human Soul, which was published the 
year before his death. This may be regarded as the first creditable at- 
tempt to present the German style of thinking, in the department to 
■which it belongs in this country, under an English form. Nor is it 
saying too much, to affirm that no work equal to it, on the same subject, 
has yet been produced in the country. The system indeed owes much 
to the philosophy of Hegel; but cannot be charged properly with He- 
gel's errors. It was a favorite object with Dr. Rauch, to transfer the 
fruits of German speculation, so far as they may be considered whole- 
some, into English forms of thought, and to make them available thu^, 
for the interests of science and religion, particularly in his adopted 
country. His Psychology, in accordance with this idea, was intended 
to be followed by a System of Moral Philosophy, and a System of 
Ethics. It is to be regretted that he was not spared to carry this pur- 
pose into execution. Few men have been so well qualified for writing 
on these subjects with advantage. When we remember that his know- 
ledge of the English language was all acquired alter his removal to 
this country, and consider at the same time the nature of the work, 
and the peculiar difficulties that were to be encountered in bringing 
English terminology to adjust itself to ideas of foreign growth and 
structure, the Psychology must be regarded as a production of more 
than common genius as well as talent and learning. 

In these circumstances, the death of Dr. Rauch was a loss to the 
country, and well as to the college which honored him as its head. — 
This took place to the great grief of all his friends, on the 2d of March 
in the year 1841. His grave is found in a secluded corner of the tract 
of ground belonging to the college, which has been set apart as a place 
of burial for the use particularly of the institutions. It is surrounded 
and overshadowed with forest trees, and is ofter visited as a consecra- 
ted spot. 

On the removal of Dr. Rauch, by the special request of the Board of 
Trustees, Dr. John W. Nevin consented to act as President of the 
College, and this relation has continued from that time to the present. 
According to the late catalogue, the Faculty consists now of the fol- 
lowing Professors and Instructors. Rev. John W. Nevin, D. D., Pre- 
sident and Professor of Intellectual and Moral Philosophy; Samuel 
W. Budd, jr., A. M., Professor of Mathematics and Mechanical Phil- 
osophy; William M. Nevin, A. M., Professor of Ancient Languages 
and Belles Lettres, and Rector of the Preparatory Department ; Traill 
Green, M. D., Professor of Natural Science; Rev. Philip Schaf, Ph. D., 
Professor of Aesthetics and German Literature; Theodore Apple, A. 
B., First Tutor; George D. Wolfl", A. M., Second Tutor; Maximilian 
Stern, German Teacher ; Jeremiah H. Good, A. B., Sub-Rector of the 
Preparatory Department; George L. Staley, A. B., and George W. 
Aughinbaugh, A. D., Asssistants. To these must be added also, the 
Hon. Alexander Thompson, L. L. D. as Professor of the Law School, 
which is a separate department of the Institution kept at Chambers- 
burg. The number of students connected with the Institution during 
the year is given in the summary ; Resident Graduates 18, Law Stu- 



HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY. 471 

dents 4, Under Graduates 102, Preparatory Department 80. Total 204 
The number in actual attendance is about 150. Of the Under Gradu- 
ates, 6 belong to the Senior Class, 23 to the Junior, 22 to the Sopho- 
more, and 36 to the Freshmen. 

The Seminary edifice is used at present for the purposes of the col- 
lege. Many of the students of course board in private families, in 
the town. A large tract of ground however has been purchased, ad- 
joining the village on the south, for the separate use of the college ; on 
which a fine edifice has already been erected to accommodate the Pre- 
paratory Department, and also a Professor's house ; and where the 
other college buildings are expected to appear in due time. The two 
literary societies are now engaged in putting up, on this ground, se- 
parate Halls for their own use. These when completed, as they will 
be in the course of a few months, will form a great ornament to the 
ground. They are built to correspond with each other, one on either 
bide of where the main building is expected hereafter to stand ; each 
of Ionic structure, 40 feet in front and 55 in depth, with a portico and 
pillars. 

This enterprise of the Diaguothian and Goethean Societies is enti- 
tled to special admiration. The following notice of it is extracted from 
the College Catalogue: "Never before has the country beheld such an 
example of daring zeal for the interests of learning, in the same cir- 
cumstances. There is but one other College in the land, it is believ- 
ed, where such Halls have been erected by its literary societies; and 
that is one of the oldest among the whole, with its Alumni, rich and 
influential in all parts of the Union. But in the present case, the en- 
terprise proceeds from the youngest of all our Institutions. Bold how- 
ever as the undertaking may appear, it is already in the way of being 
crowned with triumphant success. One of tl\e Halls is now under 
roof; while the other is expected to go forward with equal rapidity in 
the spring. The friends of the Institution have responded generously 
to the call which has been made upon them by the students for their 
assistance, thus far; and full confidence is felt that this will continue 
to be the case, till the work is completed. The enterprise is worthy 
of the patronage of all who take an interest in letters. These Halls 
cannot fail, when completed, to give powerful support to the general 
interest comprised in the college; while each of them may be expect- 
ed to become hereafter separately, by means of its library and muse- 
um, an ornament to the State. Great account is made of the socie- 
ties, in the general conduct of the college. They include a depaninent 
t-'f education, that is, to say the least, fully as important as any other 
b"elonging to the system. By having their separate Halls, it is believ- 
ed they will be borught to feel still more than before their true weight 
and dignity; and that in this manner much will be gained, in the way 
of promoting among the students that manly sense of self-respect and 
personal responsibility, which the government of the college is so 
rauchjconceined to cultivate, as well as in the way of literary improve- 
ment generally. Each Hall will furnish room for a large museum of 
some sort, as well as for an extensive library, on the first floor; the 
second being appropriated altogether, as a stately chamber, to the re- 
gular sittings of the society." 

The Seminary and College have an interest in a new, large and 
handsome church, on Seminary street, recently erected. It is owned 



472 HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY. 

exclusively by the German Reformed. The edifice measures seventy 
feet in front, and is fifty feet in breadth. The site is a very eligible 
one, about half way between the Seminary and the town, exhibits a 
more than common fine appearance. Altogether the village has been 
greatly improved, in an indirect way, through the influence of the in- 
stitutions, as well as by the edifices erected immediately for their use. 
During the past year, the Presbyterian church has been remodelled, 
within and without, and so much improved as hardly to look like the 
same building. A number of fine brick houses besides have been put 
up, at ditferent points in the town ; and others still are expected to be 
put up from year to year. 

As it regards the peculiar character of Marshall College, and the 
claims it is supposed to have upon the favor of the public, we cannot 
do belter perhaps than lo present in conclusion the following state- 
ment which we find in its recent catalogue: 

The Institution has been called to struggle with many difficulties and 
trials. These, however, have been thus far happily surmounted; and 
its friends now feel themselves fully authorised to commend it to the 
attention of the public, as an interest in all respects worthy of its con- 
fidence and patronage. On the State of Pennsylvania it may be said 
to have special claims. Never before, it is believed, has a better 
foundation at least been presented in the State, for the creation of a 
literary interest that may be expected in the end to be worthy of its 
name. The grounds on which the college may be recommended, are 
in general the following: 

1st. Its advantageous location, in a merely outward view. The 
whole State probably could not furnish one, in all respects, more eli- 
gible. Mercersburg, is a village of about twelve hundred inhabitants, 
situated in Franklin county, in the midst of a fertile limestone region, 
at the distance of an hour's walk from the base of what is called the 
North mountain. The scenery formed by the mountains, which bend 
round it like a vast crescent or amphitheatre, contrasting as it does 
with the rich open country below, is absolutely splendid. This itself 
is of high account. Scenery is always educational; and no parent, 
who is possessed of proper intelligence and right feelings, can be in- 
different to its influence in selecting a school or college for his son. — 
The objects that surround the spirit in the years especially of college 
life, work upon it continually with a plastic force, the impression of 
which can never afterwards be wholly lost. They stamp their image 
into the very constitution of the soul. It is a matter of immense ac- 
count, therefore, whether a student shall hold communion during his 
college course, with the loveliness and freedom of nature in her 
brightest forms, or be shut up to the irksome prosaic fellowship of 
mere brick and mortar in a large town, or some insipid flat prospect 
of barren sameness on all sides in the country. In this respect Mar- 
shall Cullege is highly favored. Strangers, who are possessed of any 
taste, are always much taken with the attractions of the place. It 
might well be selected indeed for a summer retreat, by such as wish 
to make their escape from the city during the hot months, without ■ 
caring to follow the crowd to more fashionable, but less graceful places 
of resort. 

2nd. The location is besides, to a proper extent, retired. It is indeed 
within a few miles of the great thoroughfores of travel on different 



HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY. 473 

sides ; and has the advantage moreover of a daily mail through which 
to communicate with the world at a distance. But in other respects, 
it forms a full retreat from the stir and noise of public life. So it 
should be always in the case of a college. The less .excitement and 
distraction it may be exposed to from without, the better. Students 
cannot fail to suffer, where their situation brings them into daily con- 
tact with the busy world. Few Seminaries of learning are so well 
situated, in this respect, as the college at Mercersburg. All its con- 
nections and relations are favorable to the great object for which it is 
established ; while occasions for intellectual or moral dissipation, are 
wanting almost altogether. 

3rd. There is not, at the same time, a more healthy location in any 
part of the State. In point of air, water and general climate, it is ail 
in this view Ihat the most anxious parents could desire. 

4th. The Faculty of the Institution is well filled. All who are ac- 
quainted with it know it to be worthy of the position it is called to oc- 
cupy, and justly entitled to the reputation it has begun to win in every 
direction. 

5th. The government of the college is paternal and free. It is con- 
ducted on the principle of training ihe students to govern themselves. 
Pains are taken to win the judgment and the heart in favor of what is 
right, and to invigoratp character by treating it with proper confidence 
and trust. More is lost than gained, in any case, by a system of rigid 
college police. A discipline which tends to overthrow self-respect on 
(he part of the student, must ever be pernicious and false. No attain- 
ments can compensate for the injury that is inflicted in this way. No 
part of his education, in the case of a young man is half so important, 
as that by which he is taught to become a law to himself. 

6ih. The spirit which reigns among the students of Marshall college 
is in all respects answerable to the favorable influences thus far des- 
cribed. The institution is characterised by a tone of order, regulari- 
ty, and gentlemanly feeling, beyond what is common in colleges gen- 
erally. A wholesome public sentiment prevails, that serves to dis- 
courage what is wrong, more effectually than any disciplinary res- 
traints that could be employed for the same end. The relation between 
the students and the Faculty, is one of mutual confidence and love. — 
It is worthy of remark, that during the whole of the last collegiate year, 
there has been no occasion for what is ordinarily understood by an act 
of discipline. A striking peculiarity with the Institution, is the inter- 
est which is taken in it almost universally *^y the students themselves. 
One of the surest omens of its future prosperity, is presented in this 
fact. The honor of the college is felt generally to be a personal in- 
terest, and all seem inspired with a common zeal to do as much aa in 
them lies to carry forward the enterprise, towards the glorious desti- 
nation It is expected ultimately to reach. Such a feeling itself speaks 
volumes for the institution. There is no college in the country, it is 
believed, in which the same zeal, at once so general and so ardent, is 
found to prevail. The power of it has been exemplified, on a large 
scale, in the spirit with which the two literary societies have recently 
embarked in the great work of erecting Halls, for their separate use. 

7th. The peculiar genius of the college as an Anglo-German insti- 
ttition, should commend it to favor, especially in the State of Pennsyl- 
rania. It is well known that the colleges of this country generally ex- 

40* 



474 HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY. 

hibit only the English system of thinking. The case, however, plainly 
requires, that the education of the country should not be restricted to 
these limits. The German order of thought especially, should be 
brought into combination with the English. And particularly might 
this seem to be demanded, by the German spirit of Pennsylvania. — 
Such a union, or marriage of these two different interests accordingly, 
is aimed at in the course of education established in Marshal! college. 
The college has more of a German character, than any other in the 
country. This does not consist simply in the encouragement that is 
given to the study of the German language. It is of little account in- 
deed to provide for the study of the language, as is done now in a num- 
ber of American colleges, if the entire system of instruction at the 
same time, be exclusively English in its spirit and form. To make such 
study of any value, it must be surrounded, to some extent at least, 
with the life and power of German thought. It is in this sense, that 
Marshall college aspires to the distinction of being a German Institu- 
tion. The English language forms of course the regular medium of 
instruction, as in all other American colleges. Bui the literature and 
philosophy of Germany are expected still to shed their influence large- 
ly on the whole course. At the same time provision is made for the 
delivery of lectures, in interesting departments of literature before the 
higher classes, in the German language itself; and on every alternate 
Sabbath the same language is employed in the religious services of 
the chapel. These exercises are all conducted in such a style as to be 
worthy of the highest cultivation of Germany itself; the language, un- 
lier its finest form, serving its prsper purposes as a vehicle of rich in- 
struction for the soul. In such circumstances, the ^tudy of the Ger- 
man language, as a part of the regular course in the lower classes, 
may be expected to proceed with due life and spirit. Every student 
finds himself urged to master it, at least so far as to be able to under- 
stand the German exercises of the Junior and Senior years; and this 
is an object which all can accomplish with very little difficulty. Then 
the exercises themselves prove subsequeiUly the best help that could 
be had, for rendering the acquisition still more large and complete. It 
is not easy to conceive of circumstances, in an American Seminary 
more favorable to the cultivation of the German language and Ger- 
man literature, in a living and effective way. 

Dr. Schaf, to whose hands the care of this interest may be said more 
immediately to fall, has probably no superior as a German scholar in 
this country. 

There may be some probabjy, who still entertain the prejudice that 
whatever bears the German character and name, must be of inferior 
•worth ; to whom accordingly the advantage here urged in favor of 
the college at Mercersburg, will seem to have little weight. But the 
time of such ignorance, it is to be trusted, is fast passing away. It is 
coming to be generally understood, throughout the country, that to be 
at all thorough and complete, an education must now embrace some 
acquaintance with German learning. No modern language so well 
deserves to be studied as the German, in view simply of its own con- 
stitution and life. The claims of the French in comparison, are en- 
titled to no respect whatever. But as a key to the literature and 
science of Germany, it is of course, more important still. Say what 
we may, the course of thought in the land of the Reformation forms 



HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY. 475 

Still an essential part of the main stream, in the onward flow of the 
world's true historical life ; and it is perfectly idle to dream of a solid 
culture in art, science, or religion, where it is left out of view. The 
signs of the time show clearly, that this is likely to now to be felt and 
acknowledged more fully every year. 

It may be proper to add, that where parents desire it, the student 
can be excused from studying the German. The course is as com- 
plete in other respects, as is usual in the best colleges of the country; 
while the opportunity is furnished at the same time for all to secure 
this accomplishment besides, under the most advantageous form-. — 
Such an opportunity, it is believed, few intelligent parents will be dis- 
posed to undervalue. 

8th. It may be noticed lastly, in recommendation of Marshall college, 
that the expenses, to which a student is subjected in the institution, are 
low. By referring to the statement of the terms and rates, it will be 
seen that the cost of an education is brought within the compass of 
the most moderate means. 

In the early days of this county, Smith's (Mercersburg) was an im- 
portant place, where an extensive trade was carried on with the In- 
dians and first settlers on the western frontier. It was nothing uncom- 
mon to see here from fifty to one hundred pack horses in a row, laden 
with salt, iron, and other commodities, for the Monongahela country. 

In the life and travels of Colonel James Smith, an interesting inci- 
dent, having some relation to this place, is mentioned. — The King's 
proclamation was then circulated, prohibiting any person from trading 
with the Indians until further orders. 

Notwithstanding all this, about the 1st of March, 1765, a number of 
wagons loaded with Indian goods, and warlike stores, were sent from 
Philadelphia to Henry Pollen's, Conococheague, and from thence, sev- 
enty pack horses were loaded with goods, in order to be carried to 
Fort Pitt. This alarmed the country, and Mr. William Duffield raised 
about fifty armed men, and met the pack horses at the place where 
Mercersburg now stands. Mr. Duifield desired the employers to store 
up their goods and not proceed until further orders. They made light 
of this, and went over the North Mountain, where they lodged in a 
small valley called the Great Cove. Mr. Duffield and his party follow- 
ed after, and came to their lodging, and again urged them to store up 
their goods : he reasoned with them of the impropriety of their proceed- 
ings, and the great danger the frontier inhabitants would be exposed to, 
if the Indians now should get a supply : he said, it was well known that 
they had scarcely any ammunition, and were almost naked, to supply 
them now would be a kind of murder, and would be illegally trading 
at the expense of the blood and treasure of the frontiers. Notwithstand- 
ing his powerful reasonings, these traders made game of what he said, 
and would only answer him by ludicrous burlesque. 

When I beheld this, and found that Mr. Duffield would not compel 
them to store up their goods, I collected ten of my old warriors, that I 
had formerly disciplined in the Indian way, went off privately after 
night, and encamped in the woods. The next day. Smith and his men 
brought the traders to their own terms — prevented them from carrying 
the goods to their place of destination — Incidents of Border Life, S^cp. 61 
and 62, as published by Joseph Pritts, Esq. 



CHAPTER XXXII. 



LOUDON. 

Loudon — Numerous incidents at, &c. — Gen. Forbes here, writes to Gov. 
Denny — Smith and others assaulted Indian traders — Assault Major 
Grant — Letters showing the " spirit of the lime," viz : Grant's and 
other letters — Singular advertisement — Thomas Gage's letter — Cal- 
lender's letter. 

/.oMf/ort, a post town in Peters township, on the turnpike road from 
Ohambersburg to Pittsburg, twelve miles from Chambersburg and five 
from McConnells town, near the base of the Cove mountain, contains 
about seventy dwellings, several stores and taverns, and one church 
and school house. It is in a highly inproved limestone valley, bound- 
ed by mountains from 900 to 1200 feet high. Here or near was for- 
merly the site of a fort, one of a line of forts during the French and 
Indian war. Some of the prominent military characters of that day 
were here occasionally. Numerous are the incidents that transpired 
here and in its vicinity, of which however, little has been preserved 
except by "doubtful, uncertain, and conflicting tradition," upon which 
one cannot safely rely. The earliest records, and subsequently printed 
accounts, seem to be discrepant. Passing by many tradition^, I have 
preferred to present the reader extracts from public records, and let- 
ters, written at the time, and carefully preserved in the Secretary's 
office at Harrisburg. 

Captain Thompson, in a letter to Col. Armstrong, under date at Lou- 
don, April 7, 17-58, inentions the arrival of forty Cherokee Indians at 
Fort Loudon, and that more were daily expected, and desires Governor 
Denny's immediate directions, in what manner the Indians were to be 
treated and how to be supplied, as they had come without arms or 
clothes. These Indians had coine for the general service of the colo- 
nies. — Votes Assem. iv. 816. 

General Forbes, on his way to Fort Du Quesne,to expel the French 
and their savage allies from the frontiers, while here addressed a letter 
t<» Gov. Denny, urging the importance of a hearty co-operation of the 
governor and people of the province of Pennsylvania, to ensure suc- 
cess against the enemy. On the 9th of September, 1758, he wrote the 
governor, "Every thing is ready for the army's advancing; but thai I 
cannot do, unless I have a sufficient quantity of provisions in the 
magazines at Raystown." Soon afterwards he steadily advanced till 
he reached Fort Du Quesne, which the French evacuated, Nov. 24, 
1758. 

It has been stated that Smith brought certain Indian traders to Aw 
ttrrm. The next day, says Smith, a« usual we backed and painted, 
and waylaid them near Sidelong hill. I scattered my men about forty 



HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY. 477 

rods along the side of the road, and ordered every two to take a tree, 
and about eight or ten rods between each couple, with orders to keep 
a reserve fire, one not to fire until his comrade had loaded his gun — 
by this naeans we kept up a constant, slow fire upon them, from front 
to rear. We there heard nothing of these traders merriment or bur- 
lesque. When they saw their pack horses falling close by them, they 
called out " pray, gentlemen, what would you have us to do !" The re- 
ply was, collect all your loads to the front, and unload them in one 
place; take your private property, and immediately retire. When 
they were gone, we burnt what they left, which consisted of blankets, 
shirts, Vermillion, lead, beads, wampum, tomahawks, scalping knives, 
and so forth. 

The traders went back to Fort Loudon, and applied to the com- 
manding officer there, and got a party of Highland soldiers, and went 
with them in quest of the robbers, as they called us, and without ap- 
plying to a magistrate, or obtaining any civil authority, but barely up- 
on suspicion, they took a number of creditable persons prisoners, 
(who were chiefly not any way concerned in this action) and confined 
them in the guard-house in Fort Loudon. I then raised three hundred 
riflemen, marched to Fort Loudon, and encamped on a hill in sight of 
the fort. We were not long there, until we had more than double as 
many of the British troops prisoners in our camp, as they had of our 
people in the guard-house. Captain Grant, a Highland oflicer, who 
commanded Fort Loudon, then sent a flag of truce to our camp, where 
we settled a cartel, and gave them above two for one, which enabed 
us to redeem all our men from the guard-house, without further diffi- 
culty. 

After this Captain Grant kept a number of rifle guns, which the 
Highlanders had taken from the country people, and refused to give 
them up. As he was riding out one day, we took him prisoner, and 
detained him until he delivered up the arms; we also destroyed a large 
quantity of gun powder that the traders had stored up, lest it might be 
conveyed privately to the Indians. The king's troops, and our party 
had now got entirely out of the channel of the civil law, and mahy 
unjustifiable things were done by both parties. This c* nvinced me 
more than ever I had been before, of the the absolute necessity of the 
civil law, in order to govern mankind. 

The following letters &c., containing much of interest are here in- 
troduced as showing the state of aff"airs and exhibiting the " spirit of 
the time." 

Carlisle, June 1st 1765. 
I received letters from liieutenant Grant, commanding at Fort Lou- 
don, complaining much of some late insult received from the rioters 
near that post. He says, on the 28th ult. (May) he was taking the air 
on horse back; and about half a mile from his post, was surrounded 
by five of the rioters, who presented their pieces at him. The person 
who commanded them, calling to them to shoot the bugger— that one 
of them fired at him, frightened his horse, that he ran into the bushes 
and occasioned his being thrown upon the ground. They then dis- 
armed him, carried him fifteen miles into the woods, and threatened 
to tie him to a tree, and let him perish, if he would not give them up 
some arms, which, by his orders were taken from the first party of 
rioters,* that had appeared ot his post. 

* A party alluded to in March, 1765. 



478 HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY. 

When he saw that they were determined to put their threats in ese- 
cuiion, he thought it was best to promise them their arras ; and was 
made to give security, to deliver them up in five weeks, under a pen- 
alty of forty pounds, which being obtained in that manner certainly 
cannot be binding. 

Mr. Grant has also sent me a copy of a very singular advertisement,* 
which was found posted up by the rioters, at some distance from his 
post; which I have taken the liberty to enclose. 

The express, who brought the dispatches from Loudon, tells me, he 
was stopped by some ot these fellows on the road, who would have tak- 
en his letters from him; but being armed with a broadsword, and his 
companion having a pistol, they stood on theirdefence and would not 
submit. 

Fort Loudon, June 4th, 1765. 

The first rendezvous of the rioters was at Justice Smith's about five 
miles from Fort Loudon, the 6th day of March last. From thence ihey 
followed the first convoy of goods, consisting of eighty-one horse loads 
twelve miles further, and burned and pillaged sixty-three loads. Capt. 
Callender applied to Lieut. Grant for a sergeant and twelve men,which 
he agreed to, who saved the remaining loads chiefly consisting of liquor; 
and made some of the rioters prisoners, who were afterwards^released 
upon bail, and took eight rifles; in all which Lieut. Grant is justified 
by Brig. Bouquet, in his letter of the 14lh of .March, who desires him to 
keep the rifles in his possession till the owners names shall be found 
out, which was accordingly done. 

Lieut. Grant, in his letter to Brigadier Bouquet of the 9lh of March, 

*ADrKRTisF.MENT. Thesc are to give notice to all our Loyal Volun- 
teers, to those that has not yet enlisted, you are to come to our Town 
and come to our Tavern and fill your Bellys with Liquor and your 
Mouth full of swearing and you will have your pass, but if not your 
Back must be whipt and your mouth be gagged; you need not be dis- 
couraged at our last disappointment, for our Just'ce did not get the 
goods in their hands as they expected, or we should all have a large 
Bounty; but our Justice has wrote to the Governor and every thing 
clear on our side and we will have Grant the oflicerwhip'd or Hang'd, 
and then we will have orders for the goods so we need not stop, what 
we have a mind and will do for the Governor will pardon our crimes, 
and the Clergy will give us absolution and the country will stand by 
us, so we may do what we please for we have Law and Government 
in our hands and we have a large sum of money raised for our sup- 
port, but we must take care that it will be spent in our Town, for our 
Justice gives us, and that have a mind to join us, free toleration for 
drinking, swearing, Sabbath breaking and any outrage what we have 
a mind to do, to let those strangers know their place — It was first Pos- 
ses (Black's Town) and we now move it to Squire Smith's Town, 
and now I think I have a right to call it, and will still remain till our 
pleasure, and we call it Hells town in Cumberland county the 25th 
May 1765. 

Peters' Township. 

Your scripture says that the Devil is the Father of sins, but I assure 
you this is the plain truth what I say. 

God bless our brave Loyal Volunteers and success to Hellstown — 
Prov. Rec. T. 6.5-66. 



HISTORY OP FRANKLIN COUNTY. 479 

informs that he was threatened if he did not deliver up his prisoners, 
that two hundred men in arms would come and burn the Fort, and 
rescue them by force, which obliged Lieut. Grant to keep his garrison 
under arms a whole night, being in expectation of an assault : and upon 
their being admitted to bail. Smith, the ringleader of the rioters, had 
the assurance to come into the Fort, and told Lieut. Grant that they 
were were determined to fire upon ihe troops, in case they attempted 
to carry these men prisoners to Carlisle. 

Several horses loaded with liquors and necessaries for the troops 
on the communication, belonging to Joseph Spears, arrived at Fort 
Loudon, where the goods were deposited, and the drivers carried their 
horses as usual into the woods to feed, where they were altacked by 
about 30 of the rioters, in disguise, wiih their faces blacked, who tied 
them up and flogged them severely; killed five of their horses, wound- 
ed two more, and burned all iheir saddles. One of the drivers, who 
made his escape, returned to the Fort, and implored the protection & 
assistance of the{commanding officer, in his rescuing his companions 
and preventing the horses from being killed. Lieut. Grant thought it 
his duty to send a sergeant and twelve men for that purpose ; the riot- 
ers finding themselves pursued fired upon the parly, who returned the 
fire and slightly wounded one of them in the thigh. 

The lOih of May, about 150 of the rioters, in arms, commanded, as 1 
am informed, by James Smith, and attended by three justices of the 
peace, appeared before the Fort, and demanded to search the goods, 
with an intention, it is believed, to plunder and destroy them, as they 
had done before. Lieut. Grant suspecting their design, told the justices 
that the goods were under his protection, by order of the commander- 
in chief, (Gen. Gage) who had been pleased to send him instructions 
to have an inventory of the goods taken by the Justice of Peace, and 
that he intended to apply to one of their number to have it done, but 
did not think it safe in presence of such a mob, whom he had reason 
to suspect. To which the Justices made answer, that they would not 
come again ; and immediately said, they were not under the General's 
orders; but it is the Governor's they are to obey. The Justices fur- 
ther told Lieut. Grant that they would pay no regard to any military 
officer's pass, of whatever rank he might be, and that no goods what- 
ever, could be safe in going along the communication, without a pass 
from a Justice of the peace. 

After this declaration, it cannot be doubted that some of these ju«;- 
tices have encouraged the rioters, and even protected them in their 
lawless measures. None of the Justices has taken any notice of this 
outrage and violence committed on Lieut. Grant, and the 2 sergeants 
I made mention of in my last ; on the contrary, Smith, who heads these 
rillains, together with the rest of the party who committed these vio- 
lences, have appeared, ever since, openly at Justice Smith's house, 
and were seen there by Lieut. Grant himself, who complained of them 
to the said Justices, but could obtain no redress. Mr. Maxwell, a 
Justice of the peace, who has always disapproved of the measures of 
the rioters, had the assurance to confess to him, the day before they ap- 
peared in arms before the Fort, that they were determined, by force, 
to seize upon the goods and plunder them; which, he says, the rioters 
made no secret of. Mr. Maxwell also says the common place of ren- 
dezvous for them, is at Justice Smith's, who, he believes, encour- 
ages them. 



4S0 HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY. 

I have seen some passes signed by Justice Smith, and his brother- 
in-law; not only for traders, but even for soldiers of the garrison, who 
are not safe to go any where about their lawful affairs by a pass from 
their own officer. They use the troops upon every occasion with such 
indignity and abuse that flesh and blood cannot bear it. A party of 
them had the impudence again to intercept the express I mentioned in 
my last, on his return from Carlisle to this place — used him cruelly, 
and detained him all day yesterday. One Wilson who seemed to head 
the party, told the express that they were determined to stop the cloth- 
ing of the regiment in its way from Carlisle." 

Governor Penn cited June 27, 1765, Justice Smith and Maxwell, to 
appear at Philadelphia to clear up this matter. The day appointed to 
hear them was on Friday July 30. The Governor at the same time en- 
joined it upon all the Justices of Cumberland county, to be constantly 
diligent and active in exerting all their powers, influence and endeavors 
to quell and suppress the first appearances of anv riots and disorders 
in the county, to preserve the public peace and to bring the offenders 
to justice. 

The following letter from Gen. Gage to Governor Penn alludes to the 
trial of some of the rioters, of March 1765. 

New York, July 5, 1765. 

Sir — I have been honored with your lelter of the 28th ult., together 
with the several depositions concerning the destruction of the goods 
on Sidling Hill, in March last. The difficulty you lay under to bring 
the persons concerned in the attack upon the convoy, to punishment, 
are very obvious, for it is probable that many of the Jury who tried the 
people, who were prosecuted for the riot, were themselves concerned 
in it ; and the acquittal of these people, no doubt, rendered them more 
bold and audacious afterwards. They have acted ever since without 
any reserve, and with as much confidence as if their actions had been 
legal and warrantable,' keeping regular scouts and guards upon the 
roads. I herewith transmit you copies of Passes given by Justice 
Smith and Lieut. Smith. 

With respect to the Advertisement, which you resent with so much 
justice, it appears to have been the contrivance of some Leader of 
the rioters, in order to encourage them, and to endeavor to sanctify 
their proceedings by every means, however false and audacious. And 
I most sincerely wish you may be able to discover the author of so 
doing an insult. 

The Governor issued, January 15, 1766, a svpcrscdcas to remove W. 
Smith from the magistracy ; and a writ to apprehend James Smith, 
as a ringleader of the riots. It would appear from the following let' 
ter addressed to Messrs. Baynton, Wharton and Morgan, by R. Callen- 
der, that the rioters had become desperate. The letter is under date, 
Pennsborough, March 2d 1766. 

Since my return home I have been informed by sundry persons that 
the rascally part of the Conococheague are determined, and are now 
laying a plan to do you some piece of injury by either stopping, or de- 
stroying some part of your last cargo that yet remains with the carri- 
ers in that neighborhood on account of Justice Smith's discharge from 
the Magistracy, for which they entirely blame your house, thinking 
thaf it is you alone have excited the Governor to do it. As you have 



HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY. 481 

already experienced so much of their villainy Ihey are not to be trust- 
ed farther than seen, and, therefore, I have advised Irwin to go imme- 
diately to that neighborhood and stop the proceedings of the carriers 
till there is some method fixed upon for the safe conveyance of these 
goods, now in their charge, lest the Devil should tempt them to commit 
some outrage of that kind, which I have great reason to believe they 
will. 

Gov. Penn wrote to Justice Smith and Maxwell that they should ap- 
pear at Philadelphia, to clear up this matter — i. e. charge alleged 
against them — the above communications. — They were requested to 
appear on July 30 — on Tuesday, at Philadelphia. 

The Gov. at the same time wrote to all the Justices of Cumberland 
county, enjoining it upon them, to be constantly diligent and active in 
exerting all their power, influence and endeavors to quell and suppress 
the first appearances of any riots and disorders in the county, to pre- 
serve the public peace and to bring the oflTenders to Justice. — Prov. 
Rec. T. 68. 



CHAPTER XXXIII. 

Greencastle — Exhumation of human remains — Crunkelton — Funks- 
town — Quincy — Marion — Waynesboro — Snow Hill — Society at, no- 
tice of— Greenville — Fayetteville— Upton — Bridgeport — St. Thomas 
— Orrstown — Roxburg — Concord — Upper Strasburg — Fannetsburg. 

Greencastle, post town and borough, in sotithern part of the coun- 
ty, in Antrim township, on the rail road from Chambersburg to Hagers- 
town, ten miles from the former, fifty-nine miles south west from Har- 
risburg, seventy north west from Washington city. It is situated in 
the heart of a fertile, limestone country, well watered and highly im- 
proved, the rail road, the turnpike road from Mercersburg to Wayns- 
boro, passes through the borough. 

Green Castle is a very flourishing place. The town was la:d out by 
(Colonel John Allison in the year 1782. Among the first settlers here 
were Crawfords, Statlers, Nighs, MoCuUoghs, Carsons, Clarks, Wat- 
sons, Grubbs, Lawrence, McLellands. Doctor McLelland, now aged 
eighty-four, a resident of that place, was the first regularly bred phy- 
sician in this part of the county. His medical visits extended into the 
interior of Bedford, Huntingdon and adjacent counties — a distance of 
some sixty miles. 

The town was incorporated by an act 25ih March 1805, and now 
contains nearly two hundred dwellings, five stores, three taverns, five 
churches belonging to the following denominations; Presbyterian, 
Lutheran, German Reformed, Methodist, and United Brethren — the three 
first named Congregations are large, the others small. There are also 

41 



482 HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY. 

five schools here, with upwards of two hundred scholars, one of « hich 
is a classical school ; and a nunmber of mechanics' shops, viz : 3 black- 
smiths, 3 wagonmakers, 4 saddlers, 3 hatters, 7 shoemakers, 1 copper- 
smith, 2 tinners, 2 tanners, 2 druggists, 5 tailors, 2 coopers, one blue 
dyer and weaver. These shops give employment from two to four hands 
each. There are also five physicians to administer to the afiiicted. 

Population at present is between 1100 and 1200. The town is on 
the increase, and bids fair to become of considerable importance. 

Near this place, a horrid murder was perpetrated by the Indians, in 
August 1764, upon a schoolmaster and his scholars.— See A. B.Ran- 
kin's letter p. 149-151, «H^r. 

CauRKELTON, in Antrim township, on the turnpike road, one mile 
and a half east of Greencastle, contains a few houses. As early as 
1786, a public house was kept here by John Lawrence. James Clark, 
late Canal Commissioner, passed his youthful days here. 

FcNKSTowN, in Quincy township, contains 12 or 15 dwellings. Al- 
ton Furnace is a mile from this village. North of Funkstown are 
the Pine Lands. 

QuiNCT, a post village, consists of some 12 or 15 dwellings, one 
tavern and a store ; about 3 miles from Hugh's furnace. 

Mahiox, formerly called Smokelmm, a post village in Guilford town- 
ship, on the road from Chambersburg to Greencastle, midway between 
both ; contains 14 dwellings, 2 stores, a temperance hotel, several me- 
chanics' shops. The Chambersburg railroad passes near. It is in the 
heart of a fertile country. 

WATNESBono, formerly called Wayncsburg, a post town and borough, 
in Washington township, on the turnpike road leading from McCon- 
nellstown, Bedford county, by way of Mercersburg, Greencastle, 
Waynesboro, to Emmittsburg, Md. It is a flourishing town, situated 
in a very fertile, highly cultivated, and very productive limestone coun- 
try. It is only 2 miles from the Maryland line, 9 from Greencastle, 15 
from Chambersburg and 19 from Mercersburg. The borough contains 
about 100 dwellings, 4 taverns, (one temperance house) 4 stores, 3 
churches, viz: German Reformed, Lutheran, Presbyterian and Metho- 
dist. There are 2 public schools, and an academy, here. A weekly 
paper — Waynesboro Circulator — is published by M. C. Grate. 

A Mr. Wallace laid out the town, about 45 years ago, and for some 
time, it was named after him — Wallacetown. It is said the first hoube 
of the town, occupied by Messrs. Tritle and Davidson, was erected by 
Michael McCoskrey. 

Snow Hill or Schnecbtirg, in Washington township, is on Anticturn 
creek, near the South mountain. It is a pleasant situation. It is prin- . 
cipally a German, Seventh Day Baptist settlement, and in quite a flour- 
ishing condition. They keep up the institution, as originally establish- 
ed, at Ephrata, Lancaster county. 

The German Seventh Day Baptist Society originated with Conrad 
Beissel, a native of Germany, about the year 1728. He had been, 
originally, a Presbyterian ; afterwards connected himself with the 
Dunkards or German Brethren ; but conceiving that they erred in ob- 
serving the first, instead the seventh day of the week as the Sabbath, 
he seceded from them ; having previously published in 1725, a tract, 
entering into a discussion, as to the observance of the Sabbath, which 
created no small excitement, and consequent disturbance among the 



HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY. 483 

Brethren — Upon which, says Dr. Fahnestock, he retired — went secretly 
into a cell, on the banks of the Cocalico creek, in Lancaster county, 
which had been previously occupied by one Elimelich, a hermit. His 
plan of retirement was unknown for a long time to the people he had 
left, and when discovered, many of the Society at Mill creek, (with 
which Beissel had been connected) who had been convinced of the 
truth of his proposition for the observance of the Sabbath, settled 
around him in solitary cottages. They adopted the original Sabbath — 
the Seventh day — for public worship, in the year 1728, which has ever 
since been observed by their descendants, unto the present day. 

"In the year 1732, the solitary life was changed into a conventicle 
one, and a Monastic Society was established as soon as the first build- 
ings erected for the purpose were finished— May, 1733— constituting, 
with the buildings subsequently erected, the irregular, enclosed village 
of Ephrata." 

After the decline of the Institution at Ephrata, they commenced the 
one here at Schnecberg or Snow Hill. For the particulars of this So- 
cielv, see " He Pasa Ekklesia, printed at Philadelphia, 1844. 

Upton, a post village, in Montgomery township, on the turnpike 
road leading from Waynesboro to McConnellstown, 4^ miles from 
Greencastle, and five and a half from Mercersburg. It consists of 6 
dwellings, 1 store, 1 tavern and several mechanics' shops. Peter Cook 
is the principal owner of the village. About 2 miles from here, in 
Peters' township, reside the Mr. McCulloughs whose ancestor had been 
abducted by the Indians. 

Bridcje Port, in Peters' township, on the left bank of the Conoco- 
cheague creek, 3 miles from Mercersburg, consist of about 18 dwell- 
ings, a saw mill, grist mill, fulling mill, 1 store, and a house for public 
worship. Here is a substantial stone bridge across the Conococheague, 
contiguous to Hoover's mill. The town is of recent origin ; started 
about 20 years ago. 

St. Thomas, a post village, in St. Thomas township, is on the turn- 
pike road lead from Chambersburg to Pittsburg. It is a pleasant vil- 
lage, 7 miles from Chambersburg; contains about 75 dwellings, 2 
stores, 4 taverns,'a German Reformed & Lutheran church, and school 
house. It was laid out about 50 years ago. The surrounding coun- 
try is well cultivated and very productive. 

OuRSTow?«, a post village, in Southampton township, on the Three 
Mountain road, south bank of Conodoguinette creek, five miles west of 
Shippensburg, five east of Sirasburg, six miles north of Green village, 
is situated on an elevation, and its location, which is beautiful, is ren- 
dered quite imposing by the surrounding country. It was laid out by 
Messrs. John and William Orr in 1834, after whom the village has been 
called. It contains thirty dwellings, nearly all built within five or six 
years ; two stores, a tavern, a very extensive tannery, a school house, 
and a number of mechanics' shops ; also two brick churches, one held 
by the German Reformed, and the Presbyterians in common, and the 
other by the so styled Winebrennerians. Population about 180. In 
this thriving village the people are remarkable for their industry and 
enterprise. 

RoxBURY, post town, in Lurgan township, on the Conodoguinette 
creek, on the east side of the Blue Mountain, twelve miles north of 
Chambersburg, contains some ten or fifteen dwellings. 



484 HISTORY* OF FRANKLIN COUNTY. 

Concord, a post village, in Fannet township, upon the Tuscarora 
creek, and in the head of the Valley, consits of several dwellings. 

Upper Strasburg, a post town, in Letterkenny township, in a fork 
ofHerren's branch of Conodoguinette creek, ten miles north west of 
Chambersburg, thirteen of Shippensburg ; fifty n>iles west of Harris- 
burg, consists of thirty dwellings, three stores, two taverns, two chur- 
ches, one held in common by the Lutherans and German Reformed, 
in which the Presbyterian congregation, enjoys the privilege to wor- 
ship, and one held by the United Brethren, three tanneries, and two 
schools, male and female. One grist mill. 

The town was laid out by Mr. Deweld Kiefer, about the year 1791 — 
Population 230. 

Fanxetsburg, a post village, in Metal township, on the road from 
Upper Strasburg to Bedford, twelve miles in a direct line north west 
from Chambersburg, in a secluded, fertile valley, called Path Valley, 
two or three miles wide, bounded on the east by the North Mountain, 
and west by the Blue Mountain. The town consists of about thirty 
dwellings, stores, taverns, &. 



CHAPTER XXXIV. < 



FIRST SETTLERS. 

First settlers — Prairie — Schlatter's allusion thereto — Difficulties and 
sufferings of first settlers — Presbyterians &c. &c — Character of the 
Nugents and others — Education — Provision for the poor. 

The first white settlers were Scotch, and of the Scotch-Irish race. 
Many of their descendants still remain ; but the German population, 
which has more recently come in, is fast gaining in numbers over the 
descendants of the pioneers. 

It is a tradition well supported, that a great part of the best lands in 
the Conococheague valley were, at the first settlement of the country, 
what is now called in the western states prairie. The land was without 
timber, covered with a rich, luxuriant grass, with some scattered trees, 
hazel-bushes, wild plumbs, and crab-apples. It was then called gener- 
ally the barrens. The timber was to be found on or near the water- 
courses, and on the slale soil. This accounts for the preference given 
by the early settlers to the slate lands, before the limestone lands were 
surveyed or located. The slate had the attractions of wood, water- 
courses, and water-meadows, and was free of rock at the surface. Be 
fore the introduction of clover, artificial grasses, and the improved 
system of agriculture, the hilly limestone land had its soil washed off, 
was disfigured with great gullies, and was sold as unprofitable, for a 
trifle, by the proprietors, who sought other lands in Western Pennsyl- 



HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY. 485 

vania. It is now under German cultivation, the most beautiful and 
fertile section of the county. 

The Revd. Michael Schlatter, a German Reformed minister, passed 
through here in 1748. In his Tage Buch May 9, he alludes to the 
prairie covered with fine grass. 

" Woselbst ich den 8ten zu Friederichton, eineneu angelegte stadt, 
in dem Schulhause eine Vorbereitungs-Predigt that, und denselbigen 
Tag meinen Weg in Gesellschaft eines Aeltesten dieser Gemeine, der 
sich freyvvillig anerbote mich durch Virginien zu begleiten, noch 34 
Meilen weiter forlzetzte bis an Canogogee, da wir ueber das so gen- 
annte Blau Gebirge zogen, so dass wir nicht vor dem 9tn des Morgens 
um 2 uhr zu Canogogee in dem Hause eines ehrlichen Schweizers* 
eine angenehme Ruhe genossen mit Danksagung. Ich predigte alldor- 
ten noch den selben Tag. Diese Gemeine, gelegen gegen Mitternacht 
von Marienland, und also nochunter Pennsylvanien gehoerend, wurde 
von dem Prediger Monaccacy koennen bedient werden. 

" Hier um diese Gegcnd sind sehr frucht bare Bau-und-Weidfelder, 
die beinahe ohne Duenge Tuerkisch Korn hervorbringen, worrunter 
Halmen sind von zehn und mehr Schuhen lang, und ein ueberaus 
shoenes Grass. Daherum wohnen noch viele Indianern, oder alte 
Einheimische des Landes, die sehr gutartig und dienstreich, und den 
Christen nicht ungeneigt sind, wenn sie nur durch starkes Getraenke 
nicht trunken gemacht wurden." 

The first inhabitants were, as already remarked, from Ireland, Scot- 
land, and a few from Germany and Switzerland. Benjamin Chambers, 
the first settler, induced others, his countrymen, to immigrate to the 
Conococheague settlement. Soon afterwards, some Germans & Swiss 
descendants, principally from the lower part of Lancaster county, 
found their way into this settlement : since then they constitute a great 
proportion of the present population of this county. Many of the Ger- 
mans speak the language of their fathers; but of late years the English 
has the preference with many whose grand-parents immigrated from 
Germany. 

The first settlers of this count)', experienced, in common with the 
frontier settlers, the difficulties and privations in new settlements — to 
these difficulties and privations, were superadded the horrors of war 
in its worst form. For eight or nine years, after the defeat of Brad- 
dock, in July 1755, the whole frontier of this county was exposed to 

* Eine f ehrlichen Schwcitzers. The Revd. Schlatter does not name the 
" honest Swiss." It may have been Jacob Snevely, a Swiss Mennonite, 
who had emigrated from Switzerland, and settled at first at Conestogo, 
(now Lancaster county); but moved to the Conococheague settlement 
about the year 1737 or 1738. He had been tax collector for the south 
pan of Hopewell township in 1739. The dale of his warrant for land, 
bounded by land of King and Brown, is 1743. When Mr. Snevely set- 
tled here he was surrounded by Indians. He was, as I have been in- 
formed, the grandfather of Joseph Snively, Esq.; and the progenitor of 
all those, numerous as they are, who bear the name Snively in Frank- 
lin county. During the hostile incursions of the Indians into this re- 
gion of country, Mr. Snevely retreated, for security, to Lancaster. 

The original homestead of Jacob Snevely is now occupied by An- 
drew Snively, Esq., in Antrim township. 

41* 



486 HISTORV OF FRANKLIN COUNTY. 

the incursions of Indian war parties, who, as is their custom, were 
marauding the country, and would often surprise the inhabitants, and 
many of whom were massacred in the most cruel manner, and others 
abducted, and inhumanly treated by the savages. So artful were these 
enemies, that notwithstanding the vigilance of the settlers, and the nu- 
merous stocades and forts they had erected to protect themselves, many 
of them fell victims, by day as well as by night, to these barbarians, 
whose desire for blood and revenge knew no bounds. 

The character of these hardy settlers is graphically sketched, by the 
hand of another. — Patriotism was a predominant trait among the early 
Presbyterians of Conococheague, as well as the whole Kittatinny val- 
l«y. They were conspicuous among the provincial troops in the old 
French war; and throughout all the Indian wars, they sustained near- 
ly the whole burden of defending the frontier. 

When a new purchase was made (sometime before), they were the 
first to make an opening in the wilderness beyond the mountains; and 
when the alarm of the American Revolution echoed along the rocky 
walls of the Blue Mountain, it awakened a congenial thrill of blood of 
that race which years before, in Ireland and Scotland, had resisted the 
arbitrary powers of England. 

Though the great body of them was patriotic, moral, industrious, 
and by no means diffident in any thing that should characterize a free 
and independent people, there were still some whose principles were 
rotten and whom neither reason could sway nor law restrain, as ap- 
pears from the subjoined extract. 

During the French war of 1755, the war of the Revolution, and the 
intermediate Indian war, Chambersburg was a small frontier village, 
almost the outpost of civilization. A considerable trade was carried 
on with the more remote settlements on the Pittsburg road, by means 
of pack-horses. In time of peace some traffic was carried on with the 
Indians. The vicinity of an Indian frontier is not the purest school of 
morals. The restraints of law and religion become relaxed. The 
laws of the provincial legislation were ill suited to the sudden and an- 
alogous emergencies of frontier life, and the people were very apt to make 
a law unto themselves, and institute a code of morals that would not 
be tolerated in better organized communities. The rigid discipline of 
the Scotch Presbyterians was introduced at a very early period into 
the Conococheague settlements, but it surpassed its powers to curb the 
wild and lawless spirit of the Indian traders and frontier men. As a 
consequence of this state of things, the Conococheague towns were in- 
fested during the revolution with a band of desperate marauders and 
counterfeiters, who bid defiance to all laws. They had an organized 
line from Bucks county through Chester and the Cumberland valley, 
into Virginia. The Doanes of Bucks county, Fritz of Chester county, 
and the men of Conococheague, (whose names might be mentioned if 
it were thought necessary,) together with other confederates in Virgin- 
ia and Carolina, drove a brisk trade during the revolution by stealing 
horses and cattle, and disposing of them to the British. When the 
British retired, they carried on an extensive trade among themselves, 
by stealing horses at the south; passing them along the line to the 
north where they could not be recognized, and exchanging them for 
others stolen at the north ; thus at that early day anticipating the gold- 
en dreams of our modern financiers, by equalizing the ezchanges. 



HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY. 487 

The long narrow valleys and secluded coves behind the Blue Mountain 
afforded a convenient route, and secure hiding places. These were no 
shabby villains: they wore the finest dresses, sported the best horses, 
and could display more guineas and jewelry than any others in the 
settlement; and though the source of their sudden wealth was suspec- 
ted, no one dared to prove it against them. When not engaged in the 
more important department uf the trade, they resorted to counterfeiting 
continental money, and sauntering around the towns, where they would 
amuse themselves by putttng tricks upon travellers. Wo betide the 
unlucky Doctor Syntax who in those days hitched his horse in the di- 
amond after night. If fortunate enough to find him at all, he would 
have great difficulty in recognizing him, with his mane, tail, and ears 
cropped, and possibly a little paint added by way of ornament. And 
equally unfortunate was any man who resisted or threatened to bring 
ihem to justice. His barn or his crops would be destroyed by fire. 
They thus for a long time defied public sentiment by threats, or eluded 
justice by concealment. At last two of them near Chambersburg, meeir 
ing a man on the highway with a bottle which they presumed to be 
whiskey, demanded it of him; he gave it up without remark, and on 
tasting they found it to be 'yeast ! They broke it over his head in a 
rage, and otherwise abused him. This led to their arrest, and the de- 
tection of other crimes; and they were hung at Carlisle. On being 
called out to execution, they refused to come ; but a smoke ol brimstone 
made in the cell brought them to speedy submission. 

The state of education is improving. The common school system 
has been adopted in every district except one township, Warren. The 
schools are in operation in 13 districts, in which 112 schools are open 
about five months and a half in the year, employing 96 male, and 17 
female teachers, at an average salary of $17,72, of the latter $11,21 per 
month ; in these schools 3,282 male, and 2,711 females are taught, 70 
of whom are learning German. A district tax has been raised of $11,- 
781 74— the State appropriation was $8,136 00 — cost of instruction 
!J10,490 74; fuel and contingencies $904 70, for the year 1844. 

Besides the public schools, other literary institutions, already no- 
ticed, exert a salutary influence upon the several classes of society. 

The religious denominations are Presbyterian, Associate Reformed, 
German Reformed, Lutheran, Methodist, United Brethren in Christ, 
German Baptist, Mennonites, and Church of God. 

Pcorhouse. — Ample provision is made for the support of the poor. 
The poor house Bear Chambersburg, contains on an average about 100 
paupers. There is a farm connected wjih it of 188 acres, and is very 
productive. 



HISTORY OF BEDFORD COUNTY. 



CHAPTER XXXV. 



BEDFORD COl'NTY. 



Bedford county erected — Extracts from Court Records, &c.— Limits of 
Bedford reduced — Surface of the county diversified — Description of, 
&c. — Geology of the county — General statistics of 1840 — Synopsis 
of census of 1840 — Streams described — Public improvements. 

Bedford county, originally a part of Cumberland county ,'was taken 
from it by an act of the Legislature, passed March 9, 1771 ; the boun- 
dary and limits of which were thus defined by said act, " Thai all and 
singular the lands lying and being within the boundaries following : 
that is to say, beginning where the province line crosses the Tuscaro- 
ra mountain, and running along the summit of that mountain to the 
Gap near the head of Path Valley; thence with a north line to the Ju- 
niata; thence with the Juniata to the mouth of Shaver's creek; thence 
northeast to the line of Berks county; thence along the Berks county 
line northwestward to the west boundary of the province; thence 
southward, according to the several courses of the western boundary 
of the province, to the southwest corner of the province to the place of 
beginning. 

By the sixth section of the same act it was ordained, "That it shall 
and may be lawful to and fur Arthur St. Clair, Bernard Dougherty, 
James Coulter, William Proctor and George Woods, Gent, or any of 
them, to purchase and take assurances to them and their heirs of a 
piece of land, situate in some convenient place in the said town (Bed- 
ford) in trust, and for the use of the inhabitants of the said county, 
and thereon to erect a court house and prison." 

Robert McCrea, William Miller and Robert Moore, were appointed 
to run, mark out and distinguish the boundary lines between Cumber- 
land and Bedford counties. 

The first Court of General Quarter Session of this county was held 
at Bedford the I6th of April, 1771, before William Proctor, Robert 
Cluggage, Robert Hanna, George Wilson, William Lochery & William 
McConnell, Esqrs. Justice of our Lord the King, to hear and determine 
divers felonies and misdemeanors committed in the said county. 

The Grand Jury consisted of the following gentlemen — 

James Anderson, foreman : Charles Cesna, James McCashlin, Tho- 
mas Kenton, Allen Rose, George Millekin, John Moore, Robert Cul- 
bertson, George Funk, John Huff, Rinard Wolfe, Vallentine Shadacer, 



HISTORY OF BEDFORD COUNTY. 489 

Thomas Hay, Samuel Drennin, Edward Rose, Samuel Skinner, Wil- 
liam Parker, Christopher Miller, Thomas Croyal, Adam Sam, Jacob 
Fisher, David Rinard. 

The first Justices of the Peace for the county appointed by the Gov- 
ernor, March 12, 1771, were : John Frazer, Bernard Daugherty, Arthur 
St. Clair, William Crawford, James Millingran, Thomas Gist, Dorsey 
Penticost, Alexander McKee, Wm. Proctor, jr., Robert Hanua, Williaiu 
Lochery, George Wilson, Robert Cluggage, Wra. McConnell and Geo. 
Woods. 

April term 1771— Tavern keepers recommended to the Governor 
were: Margaret Frazer, Jean Woods, Frederick Naugle, Geo. Funk, 
John Campbell. 

July 1771 — James Anderson, Andrew Bonjour, Thomas Campbell, 
Joseph Irwin, John Miller, Samuel Paxton. 

January Session ol 1783 the Court fixed the following 
in Bedford county. 

One bcfwl of West India rum toddy 

Do. Continental or other rum 

Du. Whiskey 

Each bowl to have one half pint of liquor 

Half a pint of West India rum 

Do. Continental rum 

Do. Whiskey 

Beer and cider each per quart 

Dinner supper and breakfast each 

Horse and hay per night 

The above to be the rates of tavern expenses and to be set up to 
public view in every tavern in the county ef Bedford. 

Done by the Court the 17th of July 1783. 

Baunaud Daughertt, President. 

The following attorneys appeared and were admitted, on motion of 
Bernard Daugherty, Esq., Robert Magaw, Andrew Ross, Philip Pen- 
dleton, Robert Galbraiih, David Sample and James Wilson, and at the 
July term, July, 16, 1771, David Grier.David Espy and Geo. Brent. 

Arthur St. Clair was the first Prothonotary, Recorder of Deeds, Re- 
gister and Deputy Register for the Probate of Wills. 

The first Commissioners were Robert Hanna, Dorsey Pentecost and 
John Stephenson ; the Assessors were James Pollock, Samuel Miller, 
Solomon Sheppard, Joseph Bealer, James Cavet and Richard Wells, jr. 

At the same session the Court appointed the following township 
officers, viz : 

Air township — Jacob Rush Constable, John Burd Supervisor, James 
Galloway William Lata, Overseers of Poor. 

Armstrong township— Edward Cahil Constable, Geo. Leazer Super- 
visor, William Styphel lames Craig, Overseers of Poor. 

Barru township — Wm. Shirley Constable, Samuel Anderson, Su- 
pervisor, James Siple John Wilson, Overseers of Poor. 

Bedford township— John Rodes twp. Henry Creiton town Constables, 
Thomas Kenton Supervisor, John Miller Samuel Drenrim, Overseers 
of Poor. 

Brother Valley township — John Huff Constable, Henry Rhode, sen., 
Supervisor, Red. Wells Gabriel Rhode, Overseers of Poor. 



vern rates. 


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s. d. 





1 6 





1 





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490 



HISTORY OF BEDFORD COUNTY. 



Colerain township — John Moore Constable, Samuel Moore Super- 
visor, Oliver Miller Wm. Parker, Overseers of Poor. 

Cumberland township — Thos. Davis Constable, Thos. Jones Super- 
visor, Thos. Coulter Sam'l Barrel, Overseers of Poor. 

Dublin township — James Foley Constable, Jas. Cluggage Supervi- 
sor, Benj. El iot Charles Boyle, Overseers of Poor. 

Fairfiekl township — Robert Loughlin Constable, John Campbell Su- 
pervisor, Thos. Jameson Garrett Pendegrass, Overseers of Poor. 

Hempfield township — Wendel Urie Constable, Joseph Erwin Super- 
visor, Joshua Meek James Bird, Overseers of Poor. 

Mt. Pleasant township — Wm. Perry Constable, Jas. Fletcher Super- 
visor, Joseph Rone John Shepeard, Overseers of Poor. 

Pitt township— Wm. Troop Constable, Wm. Elliot Supervisor, De- 
vereaux Smith Con. Wend. Miller, Overseers of Poor. 

Ross Straver township — Wm Lynd Constable, Rob. Thompson Su- 
pervisor, Henry Spears Rob. McConnell, Overseers ot Poor. 

Spring Hill township — Lewis Seltzer Constable, Charles Burkham 
Supervisor, Jno. Wm. Province Luke Collins, Overseers of Poor. 

Tyrone township — Sam'l Lyon Constable, Lawrence Harrison Su- 
pervisor, Ebenerer Zane John Stinson, Overseers of Poor. 

Tullyleagu" township — Andrew Boys Constable, Supervisor none. 
Overseers of Poor, none. 

When the county was first organized it included the whole north- 
western and southwestern part of the province. Since, it has been gra- 
dually reduced to its present limits. It was first reduced by annexa- 
tion of a part of it to the county of Northumberland, March 21, 1772, 
which was erected out of parts of Lancaster, Cutnberlaml, Berks, Nor- 
thampton and Bedford; then by the establishment of Westmoreland 
in 1773, of Huntingdon in 1787, and Somerset in 1795; and is now 
bounded as follows: on the north by Huntingdon and east by Frank- 
lin counties; south by the Stateof Maryland, and west by Somerset 
and Cambria counties. Length about 44 miles; breadth 34; area 1,52() 
square miles. Population 'in 1790 was 13,124; in 1800 12,039; in 
1810 15,746 ; in 1820 20,248 ; in 1830 24,502; in 1840 29,335. Aggre- 
gate amount of property taxable in 1844 $3,294,386 00. The county is 
at present divided into the following townships, viz: Air, Bedford, Bel- 
fast, Bethel, Colerain, Cumberland Valley, Dublin, Greenfield, Hope- 
well, Londonderry, Napier, Hrovidence, Southampton, St. Clair, Woot'- 
berry, Broad Top, East Providence, West Providence, Union, North 
Woodberry, South Woodberry, Licking Creek, Middle Woodberry, 
Monroe and Harrison, and several boroughs, which will be mention- 
ed in the sequel. 

The face of the country is greatly diversified ; mountainous, uneven, 
broken, undulating and level. Numerous mountains or high ridges 
intersect the county, passing across it in a direction nearly north and 
south, which are separated by vallies of irregular width. The first 
prominent mountain that presents itself is the Cove or Tuscarora 
mountain. The Tuscarora separates Franklin from Bedford. A small^ 
valley or rather Cove intervenes between this and Scrub Ridge, which 
is not so high as the first mentioned ; then we next meet with Sideling 
Hill, which extends from the Maryland line across the county, and into 
Huntingdon county as far as the Juniata river, a distance of more 
than 50 miles. Next is Broad Top, extending northeast from Hopewell 



HISTORY OF BEDFORD COUNTY. 491 

township, into Union township, Huntingdon county — coal obounds in 
this county. South of Broad Top or Harbour mountain, Ray's Hill, 
Clear Ridge, and several other ranges extending southward into Mary- 
land. Immediately west of these is Warrior Ridge, which extends 
from the souih boundary of the county, northeast through Southampton 
and Providence townships, to the Raystown branch of the Juniata 
river. Next is Tussey's mountain, stretching quite across the coun- 
ty, and thence northward through Huntingdon and Centre counties 
towards the West Branch of the Susquehanna. Further west is 
Dunning's mountain, a continuation of Eviti's mountain from the vici- 
nity ot Bedford. Evitt's mountain rises in Maryland, north oi the Po- 
tomac, and runs into this county to the Raystown Branch, dividing 
Cumberland Valley and Bedford townships, from Southampton & Cole- 
rain. Its length is this about 19 miles. Wills' mountain, also rises 
in Maryland on the north side of Wills' creek, runs into this county a 
short distance north of the fov n of Bedford; and beyond then is the 
Allegheny, which forms part of the western boundary of the county. 

Besides these mountains are a number of knobs and elevated, rugged 
ridges, that contribute much to the diversified aspect of the country. 
Nor is the aspect of the country more diversified than are the geologi- 
cal features. 

Though the aspect of the country is rugged and forbidding, and a 
goodly portion unproductive, nevertheless, there are to be found be- 
tween lofty ridges and mountams, delightful valleys, studded with 
comfortable dwellings; healthy and prolific families, with all the com- 
forts of life in abundance, and every thing that renders life comfort- 
able. 

Limestone is found east of Tussey's mountain, crossing the Juniata 
at Bloody run; and also about the town of Bedford, from which it 
extends on the west of Evitt's mountain to the Maryland line. 

Another long narrow belt of the same limestone, ranges from the 
southern boundary of the state up Wills' creek on the west of Wills' 
creek on the west of Wills' mountain, stretching north eastward quite 
across the country to Juniata near Hollidaysburg. 

The fossiliferous sandstone will generally be found to accompanv 
the limestone last mentioned, commonly forming sharp rough hills along 
the side of the valley which contains the limestone. The dark and 
olive colored slates, with the gray and red sandstones and red shales 
of the next two formations, and occupy most of the country between 
Scrub Ridge and Sideling Hill, and also from the latter to Warrior 
ridge. 

In the western part of the county there is also a broad belt of these 
formations extending from the limestone and fossiliferous sandstone 
to the Alleghany mountain. The coarse gray sandstone of the next 
formation is found in Sideling Hill, Rays Hill, Harbour mountain, and 
on the eastern front of the Alleghany. 

The red shale next below the coal measures is seen at the base of 
Broad Top in Wells' Valley, and westward in Ground Hog Valley. 
The sandstone which lies immediately below the coal of the Broad 
Top region, differs from the general character of the same formation 
below the other coal measures of the State, having less of the pebbly 
conglomerate character, and more resembling the sandstone between 
the coal beds themselves. 



492 HISTORY OF BEDFORD COUNTY. 

Broad Top mountain, only a part of which is in this county, is a 
broad, irregular jj/a^eaM, having several spurs running out towards the 
bounding valleys. Beds of coal have been opened on it in many pla- 
ces, and have been found to be from 3 to 8 feet thick ; yielding coal of 
good qualiiy, though less bituminous than that west of the Alleghany 
mountain. This region has been but imperfectly explored, and the 
number of coal seams, with their extent and relative positions, has 
not been fully ascertained. Iron ore occurs in many parts of the 
county, and is extensively mined in several places for the supply of 
furnaces. The best kind is found in Morrison's Cove. 

According to the statistics of 1840, Bedford county contained 9 fur- 
naces, which produced 7,765 tons of cast iron; 2 forges produced 8398 
tons of bar iron ; 14,497 tons of fuel consumed in the manufacture of 
iron, employing 821 men including mining operations, capital invested 
$253,000 ; coal dug 8,100 bushels, employed 10 hands, capital invested 
§900; horses and mules 8,098, neat cattle 53,213, sheep 82,055, swine 
95,716 value of poultry $10,320; wheat 347,704, barley 5,531, oats 
591,371, rye 295,051, buckwheat 52,851, corn 329,956, pounds of wool, 
66,699, hops 3,516, 3,516, wax 2,146, bushels of potatoes 284,222, tons 
of hay 33,384, tons of flax 5;|, pounds of sugar made 3,207, cords ol 
•wood sold 2^200, products of the orchard valued at $5,667, home-made 
goods $10,544, stores of all kinds 40, capital invested $120,900 ; value 
of machinery manufactured $2,700; bricks and lime $4,900, hands 
employed in making brick 16, capital invested $650 ; 1 1 fulling mills, I 
woolen factory, value ol manufactured goods $9,700, 18 hands em- 
ployed, capital $11,500 ; various manufactures $26,770, persons em- 
ployed 94; capital invested $8,334; value of hats and caps manufac- 
tured $3,200; 10 persons employed, capital $1,1000; 22 tanneries; 
tanned 6,546 sides of sole leather, 4,847 upper; 43 hands employed ; 
capital $35,200, 26 hands employed, various other manufactories ef 
leather; $93,525 value of manufactured articles, capital $6,735 ; 9 dis- 
tilleries, manufactured 40,600 gallons, 9 hands employed, capital $,600; 

I powder mill, made 4,000 pounds, 2 men employed, $800 capital ; 
value of drugs, paints, ^c, $1,200, capital $35,005 ; 12 potteries, $5,- 
350 val. of articles, 17 hands employed, capital $1,900 ; 2 printing of- 
fices, 5 men employed, $4,800 capital; value of carriages and wagons 
manufactured $8,025 ; 27 hands employed, capital $4,205; 19 flouring 
mills, made 8,400 barrels of flour, 12 grist mills, 43 saw mills; value 
of manufactures $17,065, 74 men employed, $69,620 capital ; furniture 
manufacture $11,850, 38 men employed, $3,790 capital; houses built 

II brick, 7 wooden, 117 men employed, value of constructing build- 
ings $32,050. Total capital invested in manufactures $192,039. 



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494 HISTORY OF BEDFORD COUNTY. 

Though Bedford county contains no mighty rivers, yet it is well 
watered. — Every valley has its stream, fed by mountain springs, and 
these uniting, furnish abundance of water power for all milling and 
manufacturing purposes. The following are the streams of any note. 

The Juniata riveii, one of the main tributaries of the Susquehanna 
rises by two principal branches, Raystown and Frankstown branches, 
in this county. The Raystown Branch rises on the east side of the Alle- 
gheny mountain, and its course through this county receives, Dun- 
nings creek, Buffalo creek, Shovers creek. Cove creek, Tussey's run, 
Clear creek. Shavers and Brush creek. Tub Mill run, Harbour run. 
Yellow creek. Six Mile creek and some smaller streams with their sev- 
eral tributaries, among which are, Bobs creek. Alum creek, Adams 
creek. Grass Lick run, Beaver Dam Branch, Middle Branch, Meadow 
Branch, Three Spring Branch, and numerous other rivulets. The 
Frankstown Branch rises near the south east corner of Greenfield town- 
ship, and flows along the west side of Dunnings mountain north about 
twelve miles, to the Frankstown gap, through which it passes to Hun- 
tingdon county ; in its course through this county it receives the Three 
Springs, and several other tributaries. 

Besides the Juniata branches several other streams rise in this coun- 
ty; Aughwick creek which rises in Hopewell and Dublin township?, 
receiving several tributaries in its course through this part of the coun- 
ty ; and flows onward through Huntingdon county. 

In the southern part of the county, are a number of streams, tributa- 
ries of the Potomac — beginning at the Franklin county line, and pass- 
ing along the Maryland line, we meet with Licking, North Branch, 
Conallaway, Buck, Sideling Hill, Fifteen Mile, Town, Hinlston, Evets 
and Wills creeks, with their numerous small tributaries, such as Little 
creek, Pattersons run. Burns run. Barrets run. Five Lick run. Little 
Conallaway, Lybersgore run, Hughs Camp run, and others of less im- 
portance. These several streams though not large, many of which are 
mere mountain streams, afi'ord many excellent mill seats, and many 
are employed as such. Bedford springs will be noticed in the sequel. 

This county has no canals, nor rail roads. The turnpike road from 
Philadelphia passes through it from east to west, entering the county 
between Loudon and McConnelstown. Near McConnelstown another 
turnpike road by way of Mercersburg from Waynesburg, connects with 
the Philadelphia pike ; and a little beyond Bedford the turnpike to 
Somerset, branches from it. 

The common roads are generally good, except in the mountainous 
regions, where they are usually very rough, and little attention is paid 
to them, by way of repairing them. — In many places the travelling in 
wheel carriages is exceedingly difficult, and very unpleasant. In some 
instances thedanger of upsetting a vehicle is great, along the acclivity 
of mountains. Lately, however, considerable attention has been paid 
to improve them so as to avoid accidents from upsetting, owing to the 
narrowness as well as the roughness of the roads. 



CHAPTER XXXVI. 



BEDFORD BOROUGH. 



The locality of Bedford— Synopsis of the census of 1840 — Fort erected 
here proving a link in chain of forts &c— Garret Pendegrass receives 
a grant of lands — Armies here several times during the French war 
—Joseph Shippen's letter to Richard Peters— Captain Ourry station- 
ed here — Refugees resort hither for protection against the enemy — 
rs'umerous interesting incidents noticed — Whiskey insurrection «Stc 
— Armies here in 1794 — President Washington and other distinguish- 
ed men here — Extracts from sundry letters &c — Bedford medicinal 
springs, briefly noticed. 

Bedford is a flourishing borough, situated near the head of the 
Raystown Branch of the Juniata river, on the main turnpike road from 
Philadelphia to Pittsburg. 

The town was laid out by order of the proprietor, in 1766. The 
order was given to the Surveyor general, John Lukens, who himself 
saw the order executed. The plan of the town is that generally adopt- 
ed by the Penns ; straight streets and a large square in the centre. It 
IS 95 miles east of Pittsburg; .54 west of Chambersburg ; 31 south of 
Hollidaysburg. and 30 north of Cumberland. The country around it 
that is not mountainous, is rich limestone land. 

Bedford can vie with any interior town, in Pennsylvania, for its 
beautiful site, and the unsurpassed salubrity of its atmosphere. It is 
nearly surrounded by mountains, pouring their limpid streams into the 
valley, shaded by forests, which, in the summer afford refreshing 
breezes and " lustrated air," so desirable in the hot season of the year. 

The site of Bedford, says the Revd. R. Weiser, in a communication 
to the compiler, is in the estimation of all who love the sublime and 
romantic one of the most beautiful and picturesque m the state. It is 
almost entirely surrounded by the sides or sloping ends of high moun- 
tains. 

The most beautiful view is from the elevation on the turnpike, as 
the traveller rises up from the Great George through which the Juni- 
ata, and the turnpike pass. 

As you approach the summit of the hill, Bedford bursts into view, 
with its spires, and brick walls, an astonishing contrast with the rug- 
ged scenery through which you have passed for near 50 miles. The 
spot on which it stands, seems to have been scooped out of the moun- 
tains by the hands of God. 



496 



HISTORY OF BEDFORD COUNTY. 



We might adopt the language of Moore in relation to its physicial 
character — 

"The bright eyes of angels only 
Can look upon us, and behold 
A paradise so pure and lonely." 

Here in this lovely spot, watered by the clear waters of the Juniata, 
and fanned by the salubrious breezes of the Allegheny, Ray seems to 
have pitched his tent. Who this Ray was, or where he hailed from, 
or what became of him, no one knows. The probability is that amid 
those scenes of carnage and blood, he and his family were massacred 
— and none was left to tell the sorrowful tale of his fate. No monu- 
ment was ever erected to tell the passer by where rest the remains of 
the first settlers of Bedford. 

There is no person living who knows any thing about Raystown. 
The oldest person, born in Bedford, now living is Mrs. Ernst, now 85 
years old; and, she says, that when she was a little girl, the Fort of 
Bedford was full of soldiers, and the houses outside of the Fort were 
called Raystown. In 1771, the old regular fort was in a state of dilap- 
itation, according to the united testimony of a number of our oldest 
citizens. But still we are told after 1771, even up to 1782, the whites 
were in the habit of running to the fort when alarmed by the Indians. 
If the fort was in a state of ruin, how could it protect the whites ? We 
have a solution of this apparent contradiction, in the well authentica- 
ted fact that, George Woods, the great grandfather of E. S. Anderson, 
Esq. had a fort made around his own house — a picket fort, and this 
was called Fort Bedford, and it was into this fort the alarmed whites 
generally ran after 1771. 

The Borough contained in 1830 a population of 879, of whom 417 
were white males, 405 white females; 27 black males, and 80 black 
females— and by the census of 1840, it contained 1,036*, of whom 
were 498 males; 471 females; 29 black males, and 26 black females. 
Of this population 7 were engaged in agriculture, 85 in manufactures 
and trades ; 20 in the learned professions, and the others variously 
employed. 

At present (1845) according to an account furnished by the Revd. 
Weiser, there are in Bedford 225 buildings used as public and private 
houses. The public buildings are, the Court house, the jail, several 
churches, viz : Presbyterian, Lutheran & German Reformed, Methodist 
Episcopal, Catholic, African meeting house, two for primary schools. 
The professional men are, 7 Clergymen ; the Revds. Thos. Heyden, 
Catholic ; Jacob Riegler, German Reformed ; Reuben Weiser, Luther- 
an ; J. M. H. Hall, Presbyterian ; W. Bergstresser, Episcopal Metho- 
dist; 2 Physicians ; Drs. J. H. Hofius, B. F. Barclay; W. H. Watson, 

"The town of Bedford has extended beyond the limits of its corpora 
tion, and hence the population acording to the census of 1840 seems 
very small, i. e 1,036. Bedford like most country towns has its su- 
burbs. On the west we have Boydstown, with a population of 50 ; 
on the east, we have a foundry and the poorhouse, and a number of 
other houses, with a population of nearly 100; then on the south west, 
we have Grand Hill with a population of 40 or 50, making upwards of 
200, who are not counted in the population of Bedlord, and yet they 
are a part and parcel of our population.— R. W. 



HISTORY OF BEDFORD COUNTY. 477 

J. G. Hamill, and G. H. Keyser, 3 Attorneys at Law; J. M. Russell, Job 
Mann, S. M. Barclay, Wm. Lyon, Alex. King, John A. Blodgel, John 
Mann, S. L. Russell, J. W. lohnson, David H. Hofius, Samuel H. Tate, 
Francis Jordan, Jchn Cesna, Wm. P. Schell, Oliver C. Hartley, Esqrs. 
Two Dentists ; Dr. C. H. Hickok, James M. R.Russell, 10 dry goods 
stores, 2 hardware, 2 drug stores, 3 confectionaries, 8 hotels and tav- 
erns, 7 cabinet makers, 3 chair makers, 4 blacksmiths, 1 whitesmith, 
2 watch makers, 2 house painters, 1 painter and glazier, 1 stage man- 
ufacturer, 1 clock maker, 1 brewer, 1 iron foundry, 1 copper and tin 
smith, 2 coopers, 6 house carpenters, 3 masons, 2 plasterers, 1 paper 
hanger and upholsterer, .5 bout and shoe makers, 4 tailors, 1 hatter, 2 
wheelwrights, 2 turners, 1 machine maker, 2 tobacconists, 3 saddlers 
and harness makers, 1 potter, 3 butchers. 

We have, continues Mr. Weiser, two papers published in Bedford, 
viz: The Bedford Gazette edited and published by Genl. G. W. Bow- 
man ; The Bedford Inquirer by Wm. T. Chapman jr.; the former de- 
voted to the interests of the present administration, the latter opposed 
to it. These papers are both ably edited and well sustamed. 

The means of instruction, are not perhaps surpassed by any other 
town in the State. There are 7 schools in existence and all well pa- 
tronised. 1. The Academy where the classics are taught. 2. The 
Bedford Female Seminary, by Thos. H. Davis, R. Weiser, Principal. 
Prof. Holeman, Teacher of Music, Miss H. N. Hunter, Instructress. — 
3. Mr. Harris, private school. 4. Mrs. Mower's private school for fe- 
males. 5. Miss McDowel's private female school, and two primary 
schools. These schools continue during the whole year. The people 
of Bedford see and appreciate the importance of educating their 
children. 

The far famed and celebrated medicinal springs are in the vicinity 
of the borough, and add much to the liveliness of the place during the 
hot season of the year. 

Bedford was at an early period of the French and Indian war, a 
frontier military post, and formed a link in a chain of Forts erected on 
the frontier settlements west of the Susquehanna river. 

The following is a list, with the names of the places and principal 
forts at the time alluded to. 

Fort Shirley, on Aughwick branch, a creek that empties into the Ju- 
niata a short distance below Huniinsdon, Huntingdon county. 

Fort Littletown, in Dublin towubhip, east of Bedford. 

Fort Loudon, on the Conococheague creek, Franklin county. These 
three forts ranged in a nurth and south line. From Fort Shirley there 
was an Indian path to Fort Augusta, near Sunbury, Northumberland 
county. 

There was another range of forts going westward. 

Fort Bedford, Fort Ligonier, Hannastown, and Fort Pitt. From Fort 
Pitt southward was another range at Red Stone creek, on Monongahe- 
la, stood Fort Burd, near which there had been two Indian forts. 

Proceeding due north from Fort Pitt, on the Allegheny, at the mouth 
of French creek was Fort Venango ; and northeast from thence stood 
Fort Le Boeuf, at the mouth of Le Boeuf creek, and onward further 
north, stood Fort Presque Isle, on the margin of Lake Erie. 

A similar range of Forts was erected on the east side of the Susque- 
hanna river. 

42* 



498 HISTORY OF BEDFORD COUNTY. 

Prior to the French and Indian war, one Garret Pendergrass had 
settled at Raystown (Bedford) by permission of the chiefs of the Six 
IVations; but during the French war he fled and took shelter at Fort 
Littletown, where one of his daughters was killed by the Indians in 
June, 1757; and before he could safely return to this place, others had 
settled here, on his land, and to atone for his disappointment, several 
of the Indian chiefs granted him a large tract of land opposite Fort 
Pitt, as appears from the subjoined deed of settlement, which I copied 
from the records at Bedford ; and which it appears had been recorded 
Sept. 19, 1772. 

Know all men by these presents, that whereas a certain Garrett Pen- 
dergrass, senior, of Bedford settlement, in the province of Penna. «Scc. 
of Cumberland, was settled some number of years past, by leave of 
the chiefs or deputies of the Six Nations of Indians, on a tract of land 
■where Bedford now is situate, while the said land was yet the property 
of us, and our said chiefs and deputies, said Pendergrass being dis- 
possessed of said land, in time of the war between the French and 
English, and before said Pendergrass could safely return to live on 
said land, it was entered upon by people, who have from time to time, 
and yet continue to keep said Pendergrass from the enjoyment of said 
tract of land, said Pendergrass at the last treaty held at Fort Pitt with 
the representatives of the said Six Nations, informed our said chiefs, 
or their representatives or deputies, that he was deprived of the above 
tract of land as above mentioned, whereupon we, and our deputies, 
did then, at said treaty, give him the said Pendergrass our leave in 
writing, under our hands, to settle on a tract of land called the l^ong 
Resch, near the mouth of Youghagain, but the said last mentioned 
tract, being at the time of the said treaty, or before, improved by some 
other person or persons, contrary to our expectation, for which rea- 
son, he, the said Pendergrass, has not obtained possession of the lat- 
termentioned tract, and cannot quietly enjoy neither of the two above 
mentioned tracts, know ye, therefore, that we the under, or within 
bound subscribers, who have hereunto caused our names to be set, 
and have put our marks ; the first of us, assigning one of the chiefs, 
and the other, two deputies of the said Six Nations, do give and grant. 
to the said Garrett Pendegrass, his heirs and trustees forever, our full 
leave and liberty of us, and for behalf of the Six Nations, to settle on a 
tract of land on the north side of Aligaina river opposite to Fort Pitt; 
to join the said river on the one side, and to extend one mile and a half 
from the landing on the north side of the said river Allegheny oppos- 
ite to Fori Pitt, in form of a semi-circle, from said landing, hereby 
granting to him, and his trustees and assigns, full liberty to build hou- 
ses, make improvements and cultivate the said tract of land, or any 
part thereof, and that he, the said Pendergrass may the more quietly 
enjoy the said land, and any benefit that he, his heirs or assigns, shall 
make or can make thereby; we do for ourselves, and in behalf of said 
Six Nations, discharge all people whatsoever from molesting or dis- 
turbing him, the said Pendergrass or his heirs, or trustees, or assigns, 
in the possession or quiet enjoyment of the said land, or any part 
thereof, and we do by these presents firmly engage and promise to an- 
swer all objection that any Indian tribe or tribes have to making of 
the above settlement. 

AwowauiT, 
Emshsherd, 

CoNJfEHHACAHECAT. 



HISTORY OF BEDFORD COUNTY. 499 

In 1758 England determined to humble her enemies on the Ameri- 
can continent. The plan of the campaign was well considered and 
wisely matured. Abercrombie, instead of Loundon, who had been re- 
called, was the Commander in chief; Amherst, was his Second, Wolfe 
and Forbes, Brigadiers. Several strong points were to be simultane- 
ously attacked. General Forbes was to assail fort Du Quesne with a 
detachment form General Abercrombie's army, strengthened by the 
Southern militia, the whole computed at seven or eight thousand men, 
viz: four companies of, 350 Royal Americans; 1200 Highlanders, 
thirteen companies ; 2600 Virgin-ans ; 2700 Pennsylvanians ; 1000 
wagoners, sutlers, and followers of the army. 

Forbes began his march from Carlisle in July 1758, to join Bou- 
quet, who was posted at Rayslown (Bedford). 

This was a stirring time at Bedford — an army of many thousand 
men to assemble here, Colonel Bouquet, who had been here some 
lime, with several thousand soldiers, advanced to Loyel Harmer, with 
two thousand five hundred men. The main body delayed at Raystown 
for several weeks, in consequence of the difficulty of procuring car- 
riages and military stores, and the tardiness with which the orders to 
the Virginia Regulars, under Colonel Washington, to join, had been 
given. 

Joseph Shippen, in a letter dated at this place, to Richard Peters, 
mentions that there were some Cherokee and other Indians here at 
this time, to aid the English. 

Camp at Raystown, August 16, 1758. 
Dear Sir : 

I have the pleasure to acknowledge the receipt of your letter with 
the commissions for Major and Lieut. Col. for which I am very 
much obliged to you. When I wrote to you about them from Carlisle 
I beg leave to assure you I did not mean to impute any neglect to you. 
I have shown those commissions to Col. Bouquet, which was my duty 
to do, that he might know my rank in the Pennsylvania regiment, with 
which he was pleased. I think it absolutely necessary to take them with 
me, as many circumstances may require me to produce them before 
the campaign is over. 

I find my duty as Brigade Major keeps me continually employed; I 
am therefore prevented from writing so frequently and fully to my 
friends, as I intended. 

It is very uncertain what number of Indians we shall have with us; 
it seems little dependence can be put on any of them. I believe there 
have been above one hundred and forty Cherokees at this place since 
the army first formed a camp here ; but they have all left us except 
twenty-five of them. Besides these we have Hambus and three Dela- 
ware warriors, who came two days ago from Fort Augusta and two or 
three ot the Six Nations ; and Col. Bouquet expects Capt. Bullen (a 
Catawba captain) with thirty of his warriors to join us very soon. I 
understand they are to come from Winchester by the way of Fort 
Cumberland. 

The army here consists now of about 2500 men exclusive of about 
1400 employed in cutting and cleaning the road between this and 
Loyel Harmer; a great part of which I suppose by this time is fin- 
ished. So that I am in hopes we shall be able to move forward soon 



500 HISTORY OF BEDFORD COUNTY. 

after the General comes up, who we hear is at Shippensburg on his 
way up. Colonel Montgomery with part of his batallion, is with him. 
Col. Washington and 400 of his regiment have not yet joined us, nor 
has any of Col. Byrd's (of Virginia) except two companies. 

We have a good stoccade built here, with several convenient and 
large store houses. Our camps are all secured with a good breast 
work and a small ditch on the out side ; and every thing goes on well. 
Colonel Burd desires his compliments to you. 

I am, very respectfully, Dear Sir, 

Your most obedient and humble servant, 

Joseph Shipped. 

Before the detachment under Bouquet proceeded further west, Maj. 
Grant was detached with 800 men, to reconnoitre the fort and vicini- 
ty. He however met with a considf-rable loss of men, and himself 
made prisoner. Colonel Bouquet still remained at Loyal Harmer. The 
enemy, inspired by their want of success, resolved to attack him in his 
camp. De Vetri made an attack upon him, October 12th. He repeated 
his attack, but not with as much success as in the day — 67 of Bou- 
quet's men were killed and wounded. 

On the 24 October, General Forbes proceeded from Raystown to 
Loyel Harmer, where he continued till the seventh of November. — 
On the r2ih, Col. Washington, being out with a scouting party, fell in 
with a number of the enemy, several miles from the camp, whom he 
attacked ; killed one, took three prisoners, among whom was one John- 
son, who had been captured by the Indians, in Lancaster county. 

Col. Bouquet again passed along the Raystown road in 1763. This 
summer Fort Pitt was literally entrenched by the enemy. Gen. Am- 
herst appointed Col. Bouquet for their relief. He commenced his march 
in July, from Carlisle. His object was first to relieve Fort Ligonier ; 
and as Bedford and Ligonier were now the principal deposites for mil- 
itary stores ; he did not proceed farther with his wagons than Ligonier, 
thence he proceeded with pack horses. At that time there was a gar- 
rison of soldiers at Bedford under the command of Captain Ourry. 
Here distressed families, for miles around sought protection, leaving 
most of their effects a prey to the savages. All the necessary precau- 
tions were taken hy the commanding officer to prevent surprise, and 
repel open force, as also to render ineffectual the enemy's fire arrows. 
He armed all the fighting men, who formed two companies of volun- 
teers, and did duty with the garrison till the arrival of two companies 
of light infantry, detached as soon as possible from Col. Bouquet's lit- 
tle army. 

These two magazines being secured, the colonel advanced to the 
remotest verge of our settlements, where he could receive no sort of 
intelligence of the number, position, or motions of the enemy — not 
even at Fort Bedford, where he arrived with his whole convoy on the 
25th of July; for though the Indians did not attempt to attack the fort, 
they had by this time killed, scalped, and taken eighteen persons in 
that neighborhood — and their skulking parties were so spread, that at 
last no express could escape them. • * * In this uncertainty of 
intelligeuce under which the colonel labored, he marched from Fort 
Bedford the 28rh of July, and as soon as he reached Fort Ligonier he 



HISTORY OF BEDFORD COUNTY. 501 

determined, prudently, to leave his wagons at that post, and to proceed 
only with the pack-horses. 

Col. Smith, who has been mentioned before, performed a daring ex- 
ploit, at this place; an account of which is given in his own language. 

In the year 1769 the Indians again made incursions on our fron- 
tiers ; yet the traders continued carrying goods and warlike stores to 
them. The frontiers took the alarm, and a numbpr of persons collec- 
ted, destroyed and plundered a quantity of their powder, lead, «Scc., in 
Bedford county. Shortly after this some of these persons, with others, 
were apprehended and laid in irons in the guard-house in Fort Bed- 
ford, on suspicion of being the perpetrators of this crime. 

Though I did not altogether approve of the conduct of this new club 
of black boys, yet I concluded that they should not lie in irons in the 
guard-house, or remain in confinement by arbitrary or military power. 
I resolved therefore, if possible, to release them, if they even should 
be tried by the civil law afterwards. I collected 18 of my old black 
boys that I had seen tried in the Indian war, &c. I did not desire a 
large party, lest they should be loo much alarmed at Bedford, and ac- 
cordingly be prepared for us. We matched along the public road in 
daylight, and made no secret of our design : We told those with whom 
we met that we were going to take Fort Bedford, which appeared to 
them a very unlikely story. — Belore this I made it known to one Wil- 
iiam Thompson, a man whom I could trust, and who lived there: him 
I employed as a spy, and sent him along on horseback, before, with 
orders to meet me at a certain place near Bedford, one hour before 
day. The next day a little before sunset we encamped near the cross- 
ings of the Juniata, about 14 miles from Bedford, and erected tents, as 
though we intended staying all night, and not a man in my company 
knew to the contrary, save myself. — Knowing that they would hear 
this in Bedford, and wishing it to be the case, I thought to surprise 
them, by stealing a march. 

As the moon rose about 11 o'clock, I ordered my boys to march, and 
we went on at the rate of 5 miles an hour, until we met Thompson 
at the place appointed. He told us that the commanding officer had 
frequently heard of us by travellers, and had ordered 30 men upon 
guard. He said they knew our number and only made game of the 
notion of 18 men coming to rescue the prisoners; but they did not ex- 
pect us until the middle of the day. I asked him if the gate was open? 
He said it was then shut, but he expected they would open it as usual 
at daylight, as they apprehended no danger. I then moved mv men up 
privately under the Juniata, where we lay concealed about 100 yards 
from the Fort gate. I had ordered the men to keep a profound silence 
until we got into it. I then sent off Thompson again to spy. At day- 
light he returned and told us that the gate was open, and 3 sentinels 
were standing upon the wall — that the guards were taking a morning 
dram, and the arms standing together in one place. I then concluded 
to rush inte the Fort, and told Thompson to run before me to the arms. 
We ran with all our might, and as it was a misty morning the sentin- 
els scarcely saw us until we were within the gate and took possession 
of the arms. Just as we were entering two of them discharged their 
guns, though I do not believe they aimed at us. We then raised a 
shout, which surprised the town, though some of them were pleased 
with the news. We compelled a blacksmith to take the irons off the 



502 



HISTORY OF BEDFORD COUNTY. 



prisoners, and then we left the place. This I believe was the first Brit- 
ish fort in America that was taken by what they called American 
rebels. 

Smith was subsequently arrested, on a charge of murder; as one of 
the men in the scuffle of the Bedford affair, was accidentally shot. He 
says — Some time after this I took a journey westward in order to sur- 
vey some located land I had on or near Yohogany. As I passed near 
Bedford while I was walking and leading my horse, I was overtaken 
by some men on horseback, like travellers. One of them asked my 
name and on telling it they immediately pulled out their pistols and 
presented them to me, calling upon me to deliver myself or I was a 
dead man. I stepped back presented my rifle and told them lo stand 
off. One of them snapped a pistol at me, and another was preparing 
to shoot when I fired my piece: one of them also fired near the same 
time, and one of my fellow travellers fell. The assailants then rushed 
up and as the gun was empty, they took and tied me. I charged them 
with killing my fellow traveiier, and told them he was a man that I 
had accicentally met with on the road that had nothing to do with the 
jtublic quarrel. They asserted that I had killed him. I told them that 
my gun blowed or made a slow fire — that I had her from my face be- 
fore she went off or I would not have missed my mark ; and from the 
position my piece was in when it went off it was not likely that my 
gun killed this man, yet I acknowledged that I was not certain that it 
was not so. They then carried me to Bedford, laid me in irons in the 
guard-house, summoned a jury of the opposite party and held an in- 
quest. The jury brought me in guilty of wilful murder. As they were 
afraid to keep me long in Bedford, for fear of a rescue, they sent me 
privately through the wilderness to Carlisle, where I was laid in hea- 
vy irons. 

Shortly after I came here we heard that a number of my old black 
buys were coming to tear down the jail. I told the sheriff that I would 
not be rescued, as I knew that the indictment was wrong: therefore I 
wished to stand my trial. As I had found the black boys to be always 
under good command I repeated I could prevail on them to return, and 
therefore wished to write to them — to this the sheriff readily agreed. I 
wrote a letter to them, with irons on my hands, which was immediate- 
ly sent ; but as they had heard that I was in irons they would come on. 
When we heard they were near the town, I told the sheriff I would 
speak to them out of the window, and if the irons were off I made no 
doubt but I could prevail on them to desist. The sheriff ordered them 
to be taken off and just as they were taken off my hands the black 
boys came running up to the jail. I went lo the window and called to 
them and they gave attention. I told them as my indictment was for 
wilful murder to admit of being rescued would appear dishonorable. I 
thanked them for their kind intentions an ri told them the greatest favor 
they could confer upon me would be to grant me this one request. Mo 
withdraw from the jail and return in peace;' to this they complied and 
withdrew. While I was speaking the irons were taken off my feet and 
never again put on.* 

Before this party arrived at Conococheague there were about three 
hundred more on the way coming to their assistance and were resolv- 

• See article Carlisle. 



HISTORY OF BEDFORD COUNTY. 503 

ed to take me out; they then turned and all came together to Carlisle, 
ine reason tney gave for coming again was because they thought that 
government was so enraged at me that I would not get a a fa?r trial • 
,n np™Z ^'^'^^'^^^"^ myself together again prevailed on them to return 
m peace.— Loudon's Nar.i. 258. 

In the fall of 1794, a number of distinguished personages, and a nu- 
merous force to quell the Western Insurrection, assembled here. The 
ollowing extracts are presented in this connection, as they cannot fail 
to be read with mterest: 

„ p " Bedford, October 19, 1791. 

frnnnr'''I!^"u ^° ^" ^'■'■''"^^°'^"' ^°'' ^^'^ purpose, the Pennsylvania 
Dre?p!lin F J^^^P^'^^fj*^" ''-'«'^' a°d which had arrived the 
preceding Friday evening, [the Governor with part of the army arrived 
on Saturday, Oct. 18] met the Governor about one mile from Bedford. 
He iramediately took the head of the whole column and proceeded to 
the own. This spectacle was superb. It was the quota of Pennsyl- 
vania, including cavalry, infantry, artillery and riflemen, marchin- in 
the most complete order, and brought to the spot of their destinatio'n to 
await the further orders of the President. Here had the Governor the 
exalted satisfaction of depositing this great mass of patriotic exertion, 
and of evincing to the world that Pennsylvania, although tainted bv 
some licentious men in the extremities of her extensive territory, is 
Sim amongst the foremost in public virtue, and in her punctual obedi^ 
ence to every continental requisition. 

The encampment is very spacious— the town is in the centre of an 
amphitheatre. Lofty hills at a small distance appearing on all sides 
to surround it. The tents spread out on the cleared ground on the 
oases of some of those hills, and occupying the common adjoining the 
town, form, particularly at night when the fires are lighted, a beautiful 
"Ppca.r3,ncG. 

The President is expected here this evening from Fort Cumber- 

,v Bedford, October 19, 1794. 

vve are encamped at this place about seven thousand stron<r and 
shall proceed to Pittsburg in three or four days— we are healthy "since 
our arrival here and have duty to do by day and night, in ridin- after 
the enemies to the peace the liberty and prosperity of our country.— 
1 wo nights ago we picked up ten of these anarchists, and a lar^^e 
party of our troop now out have been riding all night to cross the Al- 
leghany mountain in order to apprehend some notorious ofl'enders— 
Our duty has become so hard that our straw beds are very comforta- 
ble at night. About thirty miles south west of us (at Fort Cumber- 
land) is an army of five thousand men, I hope they will not form a 
junction with us, as provisions are scarce— we are in great want of 
sugar, chocolate, brandy and wine, neither of them to to be bought 
here; nor have we had a sutler to the army, tho' much wanted. 

Bedford, Oct. 20, 1794. 

Our army at this place amounts to upwards of six thousand men, 
amongst whom are about twelve hundred horse, generally are and have 
been very orderly, healthy and in good spirits. The President arrived 
yesterday from Fort Cumberland from whence the Maryland and Vir- 
ginia troops march this day for Fayette, we follow probably in two or 
three days. The two columns are about equal in number and at pre- 



504 HISTORY OF BEDFORD COUNTY. 

sent about equally distant from the seat of insurrection. The Whis- 
key Boys are most seriously alarmed at our approach and are ready to 
tender any kind of submission if we will but return — This however, 
they cannot be indulged in. We shall march into the country and 
their leaders and principals must suffer or abandon their homes. Our 
horsemen have already taken thirteen of the most inveterate in this 
county, some thay have brought from the other side of the mountain 
forty-five miles off, aaiongst whom are Tiison, Wincanen, Lucas and 
Husbands. In those expeditions of the horse into the most seditious 
parts of the countrry, no opposition has been offered, that is at least 
till we retire. 
General Lee, the Commander, came with the President. 

Bedford Oct. 20, 1794. 

Last evening the President of the United Slates arrived here from 
Fort Cumberland — fifteen guns were fired on his arrival, and except 
this, no other ceremony was observed. He was escorted by four dra- 
goons only. 

On Saturday evening, at 8 o'clock, a party of thirty horse, under 
Capt. Singer, left our camp, and after riding about forty miles, at day- 
light took Harman Husbands, and one Wilson, both of whom had been 
active in the late oppositions to the laws. The party returned abont 
10 o'clock last night, with their prisoners, and are entitled to great 
credit for the expedition and secrecy with which they performed their 
mission. The detachment was taken from the city troops. 

This morning Gen. Bloomfield arrived here with a detachment of 
Jersey troops — and I believe, the amount of the forces now encamped 
near Bedford is about six thousand. It is supposed some of the troops, 
that first arrived here, will be ordered in a day or two, perhaps to- 
morrow. 

Bedford, Oct. 21. 1794. 

The Governor arrived here on Saturday, and the President on Sun- 
day last. — The President arrived by the most private road, and there- 
by escaped that formal reception which must be so disagreeable to a 
man of his worth and feeling. 

Yesterday we were reviewed by Gov. Lee from Virginia — (who is 
to take the command in chief, and who also arrived on Sunday). Both 
he and Gen. Frelinghuysen expressed their approbation at our mili- 
tary appearance. Gen. Lee has appointed Benjamin R. Morgan, from 
the Blues, one of his aids. 

Major McPherson has been offered the rank of a Colonel over an- 
other regiment, to be succeeded as Major, Capt. Baynton ; but I am 
inforrned he has refused the offer, giving a preference to his present 
situation. 

Capt. Lyman's regulars, (a handsome company) Capt. Clun's artil- 
lery, Taylor's riflemen, Graham's volunteers, the Philadelphia Horse 
and McPherson's Blues, are to be completed a legion by a few of the 
Jersey troops. They are to be under the command of Gen. Freling- 
huysen, and will march from this place to-morrow, though I cannot 
say by what route. A second column departs by a different route the 
next day; and a number of troops are to remain stationed here for 
for some time. We do not expect (though we may be disappointed) 
to pierce more than 50 or 60 miles into the country. It will be only 



HISTORY OF BEDFORD COUNTY. 505 

to show ourselves, and to intimidate the inhabitants, for we can hear 
of no enemy in array against us. 

On the 20lh Oct. Gen. Washington addressed Gen. Lee, commander- 
in-chief, the following : 

" United Stales— Bedford, Oct. 20, 1794. 

To Henry Lee, Esq., commander-in-chief of the Militia army on its 
march against the Insurgents, in certain western counties of Penn- 
sylvania. 

Sir — Being about to return to the seat of government, I cannot 
take my departure, without conveying through you to the army under 
your command, the very high sense I entertain of the enlightened and 
patriotic zeal for the constitution and the laws which has led them 
cheerfully to quit their families, homes and the comforts of private life 
to undertake and thus far to perform a long and fatiguing march and 
[0 encounter and endure the hardships and privations of a military life. 
Their conduct hitherto affords a full assurance that their perseverance 
will be equal to their zeal; and that they* will continue to perform 
with alacrity whatever the full accoinplibhment of the object of their 
march shall render necessary. 

No citizens of the United States can ever be engaged in a service 
more important to their country. It is nothing less than to consolidate 
and preserve the blessings of that revolution which at much expense 
of blood and treasure, constituted us a free and independent nation. 
It is to give to the world an illus:rious example of the utmost conse- 
quence to the cause of mankind. I experience a heartfelt satisfaction 
in the conviction that the conduct of the troops throughout will he in 
every respect answerable to the goodness of the cause and the magni- 
tude of the stake. 

There is but one point on which I think it proper to add a special 
recommendation, it is that every officer and soldier will constantly bear 
in mind, ihat he comes to support the laws, and that it would be pecu- 
liarly unbecoming in him to be in any way the infractor of them, that 
the essential principles of the government confine the province of the 
military, when called forth on such occasions, to these two objects — 
1st. To combat and subdue all who may be found in arms, in opposi- 
tion to the national will and authority — 2d. To aid and support the 
civil magistrates in bringing offenders to justice ( the dispensation of 
this justice belongs to the civil magistrate ; and let it ever be our pride 
and our glory to have the sacred deposit there inviolated ;) convey :o 
my fellow citizens in arms, my warm acknowledgements for the readi- 
ness with which they have hitherto seconded me in the most delicate 
and momentous duty the chief magistrate of a free people can have to 
perform, and add my atfeciionate wishes for their health, comlbrt and 
success. Could my further presence wiih them have been necessary, 
or compatible with my civil duties at a period when the approachino 
commencement of a session of Congress, particularly calls me to re- 
turn to the seat of government, it would not have been withheld. In 
leaving them I have less regret, as I know, I commit them to an able 
and faithful direction, and that this direction will beably andfaithfully 
seconded by all. 

George Washington, 

43 



506 



HISTORY OF BEDFORD COUNTY. 



The next day General Lee issued his general orders, as follows — and 
concluded with a few remarks to the army ; 

Head Quarters. 

Bedford, Oct. 21, 1794. 

General Orders : 
To-morrow, at the hour of 8 in the morning, the Light Corps will 
advance ; Maj. Gen. Morgan will lead the one acting with the left wing 
and Maj. Gen. Frelinghuysen the one with the right wing. 

On the next day, at the same hour, the army will move in two col- 
umns, the right wing composed of the New Jersey and Pennsylvania 
lines, forming the right column, under the immediate command of his 
excellency Gov. Mifflin ; the left wing composed of the Maryland and 
Virginia lines forming the left column with the commander-in-chief. 

The Quartermaster General will continue with the right wing, and 
the proper officers in his department and in the department of forage 
attended with a sufficient number of axe men, must accompany the 
Light Corps, under whose protection they are to prepare all necessa- 
ries for the army. Abundance of straw must be ready for the troops, 
inasmuch as their health greatly depends on their keeping dry and 
warm. 

The utmost regularity must be preserved in the march and in the 
mode of encampment, which must always be in two lines with the ca- 
valry in the centre, unless prohibited by the nature of the ground. 

Dragoons are dreadful in light, and impotent in darkness, their safe- 
ty during night must therefore be regarded. 

The artillery to move as a park, and march in the centre. 
Constant communication must be preserved between the Light Corps 
and the main body and between the respective columns, with all other 
precautions necessary to protect the troops from surprise and insult. 

Whatever may be the professions of the insurgents they are not to be 
regarded. Men who have acted a part so atrocious will cheerfully 
add to their guilt, if it can be done with impunitv — Carelessness in the 
conduct of the army will invite attempts upon it, and produce war, 
•while vigilance in the conduct of it will arrest the one and the other. 

The different columns will be precise in the execution of the daily 
marches assigned to them respectively, and if from unavoidable acci- 
dents either should fall short one day, the deficiency is to be made up 
the next day, otherwise the mutuality in operation will be lost and the 
army will be exposed to disgrace, and evils of discordant movements. 

The particular routes with the necessary instructions will be given 
to the commanding Generals, and will of course form the rule of their 
conduct. 

When the right wing reaches it will divide into two columns, the 
New Jersey line and brigade of cavalry under Brigadier White, form- 
ing one column, to be commanded by his excellency General Howell, 
■will take a direction to the right, while the Pennsylvania line, with the 
Light Corps, will pursue the original route under the order of Gover- 
nor Mifflin. When those columns divide, the right will move from 
their right, and the left from their left. 

Chosen parties of Horse must follow the rear of each wing to arrest 
stragglers from the line, and to protect the property of the individuals, 



HISTORY OF BEDFCRD COUNTY. 507 

lo the due preservation of which in every respect the utmost attention 
is to be paid by officers of every rank. 

The President of the United States being about to return to the seat 
of government, has been pleased to direct the commander-in-chief to 
present to the army his affectionate wishes for their welfare and happi- 
ness : in no way can the very grateful command be so fully executed 
as by publishing the very words of the President, which are accord- 
ingly subjoined. 

To this parental counsel of our beloved chief magistrate, the com- 
mander begs leave lo add the flattering hopes he entertains, that the 
conduct of the army will justify the favorable anticipation formed of it, 
thus shall we establish to ourselves a character the most amiable, and 
exhibit to posterity a model to all future armies. Lest, however, some 
individual may have crept into the ranks, callous to all the feelings of 
honor, of virtue, and consequently the fair character so justly due to 
the great body of the troops may be snatched from them by the licen- . 
tiousaess of the few, the commandants of divisions, brigades, regiments 
and corps are required to examine minutely their respective troops 
before the army moves, and dismiss all whom they deem unworthy of 
participating in the honorable service in which we have embarked. 
Six rounds of ammunition are to be issued to all corps as yet unfur- 
nished. — The troops are to draw two day's provisions, on alternate 
days during the march. The Penn'a. and Maryland lines to draw on 
one day, and the New Jersey and Virginia lines on the next day; this 
system will be convenient for the superintendants of provisions, and 
consequently tend to produce punctuality in the supplies. The com- 
mander-in-chief has been pleased to appoint Major Wm. Alexander, & 
Major Nelson deputy Adjutant-Generals, and Doctor Welford Surgeon 
General — Majors Hand, Morgan and Chelwood, aids de camps to the 
commander-in-chief; they are to be respected accordingly. It is to be 
understood that no appointments in the line of the army is to affect 
appointments heretolbre made. 

The army moved westward to the arena of war, where, the soldiers 
remained on duty for several weeks. The following extracts give 
some particulars as to the number slain, wounded and missing, during 
the whole campaign, west of the mountains: — 

Pittsburg Nov 22, 1794. 
The army having completed the business which called them to the 
field, viz. restoring order and submission to the laws in this country, 
without firing a gun or seeing anv person that would acknowledge 
himself an insurgent, are now on their return home. 

Gov. Mifllin, escorted by the Lancaster and Berks troops of horse 
left this place on Tuesday last (18 Nov.) and the day following the 
whole of the Pennsylvania line, under the command of Major General 
Irwin. 

Governor Howell with the Jersey troops, marched on Friday (21). 
We hear that part of the Jersey horse will pass through Northumber- 
land county — we regret that some restless, discontented characters in- 
habit that part of the state. 

The Virginia and Maryland lines are also on their return home. 
The Secretary of the Treasury of the United Slates left this town on 
Wednesday last (19) for the seat of Government. 



508 



HISTORY OF BEDFORD COUNTY. 



Pittsburg Nov 29, 1794. 

Governor Lee, the Commander-in-Chief, left town on Wednesday 
last (26 Nov.) on his return to Virginia. 

Ma^or General Morgan, who is appointed to command ihe troops 
left this country, has established head quarters at Bentley's farm, on the 
Monongahela, where they have erected a fortification. 

On Tuesday last, Judge Peters and Mr. Rawie, the attorney for the 
United States for this district, closed the examination of the persons 
apprehended in this county, said to have been active in the late insur- 
rection — some were discharged, others held to bail. 

Having now given an account of the town of Bedford, I proceed to 
the Bedford Springs. These celebrated Springs are about Ij miles 
south of Bedford. The medicinal properties of the Bedford spring, i. 
e. of the mineral spring, were first discovered about 50 years since, 
or in 1796, by a queer sort of a man by the name of Nicholas Schouf- 
fler, whose eccentricities are yet remembered by many of our oldest 
citizens. This man, though no alchymist, yet was a monomaniac on 
the subject of gold. He was always hunting for gold ; indeed he spent 
all his time along the eastern spars of the Alleghany mountains, and. 
along the streams in our vallies, looking for the indications of gold 
— at last he got on the stream called Shover's run, followed it up until 
he got into a kind of bog thickly covered with underwood : he found 
what he thought sure indications of gold, in the sedementary deposit 
left by the waters of the Bedford Spring, upon the wood and stones 
over which it ran. 

He immediately built a rude furnace and commenced his work of 
melting the stones, nnd evaporating the water. Enraptured with the 
idea of having now found the El Dorado of his wishes, he went to 
Thomas Vierey and t ild him he had found something valuable. Did 
you find iron 1 says Vierey. No : belter than iron, replied Schoufl3er. 
Well, did you find silver 1 No: better than silver. Well, did you find 
gold ? No : better than gold. Well, Nicholas, what on earth did you 
findl Why I have found loadstone. This anecdote was related to me 
by an old citizen. Well, old Nicholas was right; he did find that which 
was better than iron, silver or gold. He found the Bedford mineral 
spring. He fecund no loadstone — but that which has the power of at- 
traction equal to the magnet. The land on which the Bedford spring 
was found, belonged to Frederick Nawgal, sen. Afterwards, it was 
owned by a Mr. Wirtz, and about the year 1803 it was purchased by 
Dr. Anderson, and is now owned by Espy L. Anderson, Esq. Little 
notice seems to have been taken of the Bedford Spring prior to 1804. 

Dr. Anderson perhaps deserves the credit of first having discovered 
the chemical properties, and the medicinal qualities of the water. In 
1804 the citizens of Bedford joined together with the full determina- 
tion of knowing all about the spring that had become famous by afford- 
ing relief to many who were afflicted. They followed the main cur- 
rent of the spring through the loose soil and thick underwood, until 
they traced it to a fissure in a limestone rock. The point where the 
spring issues, is about 16 feet above the level of Shovers' run. The 
water runs out very copiously; at the rate of 16^ gallons per minute. 
The stream is constant ; and the writer has noticed no increase or di- 
minution, summer or winter, for 5 years — neither does the drought ef- 



HISTORY OF BEDFORD COUNTY. 509 

feet it. The spring comes from under a mountain, whose height is 
480 feel ; and the bed of magnesia (or sulphate of magnesium) through 
which the water percolates, may be 4 or 500 feet deep. Hence no or- 
dinary drought can effect it. That the waters of this spring flow over 
an immense bed of magnesia, is evident from the composition found 
m it. 

The analysis of this water by Dr. Church, gave the following re- 
sult, viz: 

I quart of water contained 18^ cubic inches of carbonic acid gas; 
20 grains of the sulphate of magnesia 3.75; of the sulphate of lime 
2.50 ; of the muriate of soda .75 ; of the muriate of lime 1.25 ; carbon- 
ate of iron 2; carbonate of lime, loss .75. Total, 31. grains of sedi- 
ment. 

Or thus: 1 quart of water being evaporated, left a sediment of 31. 
grains, and consisted of the following ingredients, viz: 

Sulphate of magnesia 20 grains. 

Sulphate of lime 3| " 

Muriate of soda 2^ " 

Muriate of lime | «« 

Carbonate of iron IJ « 

Carbonate of lime 2 " 

Loss — or substances not detected | " 

31. grains. 

P. S. I strongly suspect the presence of the nitrate of copper in the 
|, of loss. 

Here then we have this valuable medicine mixed in nature's great 
laboratory, to an extent of refinement that art and science can never 
approximate. From the composition held in solution by this water, it 
must be of immense importance to the afllicled. 

Taken in moderate quantities, it must be one of the finest aperient 
or deobstruent medicines in the whole Materia Medica ; and taken in 
large quantities it must be a powerful cathartic. As a deobstruent, it 
nuistalso have a powerful diuretic effect: hence its utility in obstruc- 
tions ; and especially in liv er complaint and greaier debility of the sys- 
tem. In addition to the spring just described, there are 6 or 7 other 
medicinal springs in the nii-ighborhood. Nature has done much for 
this beautiful and romantic spot. There is perhaps no other place in 
the United States where nature in her grandeur and sublimity is so 
closely connected with the embellishment-; cfart. Here you can stand 
by the fountain of health, as it gushes from your mother earth, ar.d 
gaze upon just so much of the blue heavens, as two mountains of nearly 
.^00 feet high will permit. The base of those mountains nearly come 
together in Shovers' run, and slope off at angles of about 50 degrees. 
Here, loo, you can see some of the finest forest trees in the world. ( 1 )se 
hy the spring stands a beautiful Sireodendron Tulipefera. Close by that 
the Libia Americana; and near it the gloomy Pine, and the beautiful 
Kalmia Satifolia, covers the mountain above you. Here is a field for 
the Botanist, the Entomologist, and the Ornithologist, The Geologist, 
too, can find plenty of employment ; for near the Bedford Springs are 
some of the finest fossil localities in the country. Here are found the 

43* 



510 



HISTORY OF BEDFORD COUNTY. 



Nautilus Pseudo Pompilius, the Ammonites, the Encrim, the Serelra- 
tula, the Spirefer, the Producta, &c. 

The improvements made by the present enterprizing proprietor, are 
in every respect commensurate with the place. 

The buildings are, 1 large centre building, 162 feet long, 3 stories 
high and 70 deep; 2 other large 3 story buildings, 130 feet in front, 
each ; and 1 other building, 120 feet in front — giving a front ol 557 
feet — besides 4 or 5 other buildings. 

In front of the buildings there is a fine yard and on the mountains 
there are graded walks. There are cold and warm plunge and shower 
baths, and in short every comfort and convenience that could be 
wished. This is a palace in the wilderness — here you have the "urbs 
in rure" — the city in the woods. 

Just below the yard is a large mill dam with a beautiful artificial 
Island. Dr. H. Heyden, in a letter written for Silliman's Journal in 
1832 says — in relation to the Bedford Springs, "In fine the beautious 
and wonderful supply of water which flows from no less than seven 
highly medicinal springs, all within the radius of a stoney cast; the 
beauty of the valley and its susceptibility of the highest state of im- 
provement, the lofty adjoining hills ; and the extensive and beautifully 
romantic view from their summits to the north and east, present a 
combination of attractions hardly surpassed in this or in any other 
country on the globe. — Add to this the facility ot obtaining all the de- 
licacies and comforts of life, including wild and tame animals, and 
vegetables of almost every Kind and quality, and move over the high 
value of the perennial and other medicinal waters, which are not ex- 
celled in certain complaints by any in the word. All these circum- 
stances combine to recommend the Bedford Springs as a place of un- 
rivalled attraction. 

This is the general opinion of all who visit the Bedford Springs. 

Every thing about the Bedford Springs, nature as well as art is on a 
large and magnificent scale. Let those who are afflicted come to this 
beautiful and romantic spot, and have their debilitated constitutions 
strengthened and invigorated — let them inhale our pure, bracing and 
salubrious air, and drink from our gushing fountain of health, and 
the trembling limbs will soon become firm, and the pallid cheek will 
soon be turned to the roseate hue of health. — R. IVeiser, 



CHAPTER XXXVII. 



Martinsburg, &c. 

Martinsburg — Waynesburgh,or Bloody Run — McConnellsiown — Were- 
fordsburg — Licking creek — Fairview — Rainsburg— St. Clairsville — 
— Shellsburg — Stonerstown — Freedom — Woodberry — Fort Littleton. 

Martinsburg, a post town and borough, in North Woodberry town- 
ship, on a branch of the Juniata, 23 miles north of Bedford, is a flour- 
ishing place, situated in a fertile, limestone valley, in Morrison's cove, 
bounded by Tussey's Mountain on the east and Dunn's Mountain on 
the west. It contains about 100 dwellings, 4 churches, viz: German 
Reformed and Methodist; Lutheran, Methodist and a Winebrennerian, 
two Schoolhouses and 4 stores and one tavern. 

The town was originally laid out by William Entriken ; but derives 
its name from Mr. John Martin, who was an early settler here from the 
Conococheague settlements. The Cove was first settled by a Mr. Mor- 
rison from Washington county Maryland. Immediately after the In- 
dian war, says the Revd. Rupley the Cove was resorted to by these de- 
sirous of seeking their fortunes in the "far west;" for by this term 
was the section known to the inhabitants of the eastern counties — it 
being immediately upon the out-skirls of civilization. The early set- 
tlers were compelled to undergo difRculties and privations, well nigh 
calculated to overcome the stoutest heart. Even now an aged pioneer 
is occasionally met with, narrating the wonderful adventures, the haz- 
ardous exploits performed, and extreme sufl^erings endured in days of 
yore, the attentive listner is sometimes led to inquire: "Can these 
things be?" 

Hagerstown in Maryland (and afterwards Mercersburg, in Pennsyl- 
vania) was the nearest place of resort, where the products of the soil 
could be exchanged for other necessaries of life ; such as salt, sugar, 
iron &c. &c. No continuous roads then, as now, chequered the coun- 
ty, aflx)rding facilities to convey produce, goods, &c. all transporting 
was then done by means of pack horses, along narrow and sinuous 
paths, over hills, through valleys, till the last mountain was surmount- 
ed. Times and circumstances, with their concomitants have changed. 
The Cove is no longer in the wilderness. It is a place of plenty, even 
to all the luxuries of life, surrounded by forges, furnaces, mills, «&c. 

The first mill built in the Cove was erected by Mr. Jacob Neff orig- 
inally from Lancaster county. It is said that while Mr. Neff was work- 
ing at his mill, two Indians lay in ambush bent on taking his life. 
When he espied them, he pointed his gun at them, and they theirs at 
him. Netf sped a bullet through the heart of the older one, and re- 
treated ; the younger pursued him, but Neff soon despatched him also. 
Their bodies, he cast into the creek, and hastened to HoUiday's Fort 



512 HISTORY OF BEDFORD COUNTY. 

to lake shelter. To avenge their disaster, the Indians the next day, 
reduced Nefs mill to ashes. 

Waynesboro' usually called "Bloody Run," is a post village in West 
Providence township, on the turnpike road eight miles from Bedford. 
It is pleasantly situated on the left bank of the Juniata river, contains 
rising of twenty-five dwellings; two churches, German Reformed and 
Lutheran, and Methodist, three stores and three tavprns. 

The town was laid out by Michael Barndnllar, June 15, 1795, then 
called in honor of George Wayne, Waynesburgh. Bloody Run passes 
through the town. 

The affair, mentioned on page 576-'7, may have given rise to this 
name. The account of Smith's assault upon the reckless traders, 
was published in London. The following is a literal extract from a 
London paper: 

"Rubbery and Murder." 

" Council Chambers, Loudon, June 21, 1765. 

" By advices from Philadelphia we learn that the convoy of eighty 
horses loaded with goods, chiefly on his Majesty's account, as presents 
to the Indians, and part on account of Indian traders, were surprised 
in a narrow and dangerous defile in the mountains by a body of armed 
men. A number of horses were killed, some lives were lost, and the 
whole of the goods were carried away by the plunderers. The rivu- 
let was dyed with blood, and run into the settlement below, carrying 
with it the stain of crime upon its surface. This convoy was intended 
for Pittsburg; as there can be no long continuance of peace, without 
such strong demonstrations of friendship towards the Indians. 

"The King's troops from Fort Loudon marched against the depre- 
dators, seized them, but they were again rescued by superior force. 
Some soldiers carried some straglers, whom they apprehended, into 
the Fort ; but their friends came to their rescue and compelled the 
garrison to give up the prisoners. We understrnd, however, that ma- 
ny of the rioters are bound over for their appearance at court." 

Tradition has " varied tales " as to the origin of ihe name of Bloody 
Run. 

McConnellstown, a post town and borough in Air township, on the 
turnpike road leading from Chambersburg to Bedford; twenty-iwo 
miles west of Chambersburg and thirty-four east of Bedford, contains 
upwards of one hundred dwellings, four churches, viz: a Presbyterian 
German Reformed, Lutheran and Methodist; four taverns, six stores, 2 
schools, 2 tanneries, 2 wagon maker shops, 7 shoe makers, 2 weavers. 
4 cabinet makers. Population in 1840,486; at present 575, of which 
24 are colored persons. 

This town is pleasantly situated in a Cove 15 miles long and .3 
broad, bound by Tuscaroraor Cove mountian and Scrub Ridge, Cove 
creek a fine mill stream passes through it. Lime stone country around 
the town. It was laid out by Daniel McConneli, April 20, 1786. 

Werefordsburg, a post village in Bethel township, near the Maryland 
line, on Conalloway creek, contains about fifteen dwellings, a store 
and tavern. It is 23 miles south of Bedford. There is some lime 
stone land in the township in which the village is situated. 

Licking Creek, a post village oa the turnpike road from McConnels- 
town to Bedford, and upon Licking creek, after which the village is 
named, consists of fourteen dwellings, two taverns, a store and several 



HISTORY OF BEDFORD COUNTY. 513 

mechanic's shops and a mill. It is six miles and a half from McCon- 
nelstown. 

-F«»i'(V?(», hard by Ray's hill, is a pleasant post village on the turnpike 
nine miles east of the Bloody Run, and consists of a cluster of houses 
— nine dwellings, store, tavern, a blacksmiths' shop, tinner shop, an 
extensive tannery, and a wagon maker's shop. The whole is owned 
by Mr. John Nycum, a gentleman of wealth, and who, for many years 
past, kept a public house at this place, 

Rainsburg, a post village, in Colerain township, consists of about 20 
dwellings, two stores and tavern. The township is limestone soil. 

St. Clairsville, or Biukstown, in St. Clair township, ten miles north of 
Bedford, on the main road leading to HoUidaysburg, contains some 20 
or more dwellings, a store and tavern. The surrounding country is 
hilly. 

Shellsburs;, R posi town and borough in Napier township on the turn- 
pike road leading from Bedford to Greensburg,nine miles west of Bed- 
ford, contains between 50 and 60 dwellings, several stores and taverns, 
one school with rising of 120 scholars. It is in a mountainous region 
of country, of which the soil is principally clay and loam. The town 
has not improveu much within the last ten years. Population about 450. 

Sionerstoivn, a post village in Hopewell township, on the Raystown 
Branch of Juniata river, consists of ten or a dozen of houses. It is 
nineteen miles north of Bedford. It is near the north east boundary 
of the township and the county. 

Besides these villages there are others of less note. Freedom and 
Claysville, in Greenfield township ; Loysburg, in South Woodberry ; 
and Millerstown in North Woodberry. 

Woodberry, is asniall post town in Middle Woodberry township, on 
the Meadow Branch of Yellow creek, contains between 20 and 30 
dwellings, 2 stores and 2 taverns. It is 15 miles north of Bedford. 

Fort Littleton, in Dauphin township, was during the French and In- 
dian war a conspicuous frontier post ; and occasionally a strong gar- 
rison stationed here to protect the settlers and prevent the hostile in- 
cursions of the Indians to the interior. In April 1756, the people had 
all fled from this neighborhood. Elisha Sailer, an officer, wrote Gov. 
Morris from Carlisle April 5, r756 — Upon my arrival here (Carlisle) 
I found the people in the greatest confusion, the troops abandoning the 
forts, and the country people gathering in the greatest consternation. 
* * I have prevailed on the people that left the Forts to escort me to 
Fort Littleton, &c. 

Captain Hance Hamilton was here at the time, when Salter was at 
Carlisle, wiih a company of men (see p. 105). On his return from 
the Kittaning expedition in Sept. 1756, Col. Armstrong stopped several 
days here. In June 1757, several murders were committed near this 
Fort. 

In a letter from George Croghan to Col. Armstrong, dated Fort Lou- 
don, June 28, 1757, he says, " On Friday evening there was a man kill- 
ed near Henry Paulin's and two of his children taken. The same eve- 
ning there was a young lad fired on by seven Indians, from whom he 
made his escape, wounded in three places. The same day a daughter 
of Gerrard Pendegrass, was killed and scalped in sight of Fort Lit- 
tleton. 

Croghan adds, that the troops were to march from Fort Littleton, 



514 



HISTORY OF BEDFORD COUNTY. 



this evening, &,-c. In February 1758, a force of 110 men were stationed 
here.* 



CHAPTER XXXVIII. 

FIRST SETTLERS, &C. 

First settlers — Intruders upon Indian lands at Path Valley and Augh- 
wiclc ; their cabins or log houses burnt. In Big Cove, similar fate — 
Petition sent to the Governor — Incidents in the early history of this 
coMuty — Education — Support of the poor. 

The first traders in this county were some Indian traders, and ad- 
venturers from the Conococheague and Conodoguinette settlements. 
Sotne of the more daring acted as pioneers and settled at Path Valley, 
some at Aughwick, and others in the Big Cove, within the present lim- 
its of the county. These settled between 1740 and 1750. The princi- 
pal pioneers in Path Valley, or Tuscarora Valley, were Abraham 
Slaoh, James Blair, Moses Moore, Arthur Dunlap, Alexander McCar- 
tie, David Lewis, Adam McCartie, Felix Doyle, Andrew Dunlap, Rob- 
ert Wilson, Jacob Pyatt, Jacob Pyatt, jr. William Ramage, Reynolds 
Alexander, Samuel Patterson, Robert Baker, John Armstrong, John 
Potts. Those at Au^hwick, Peter Falconer, Nicholas De Long, Sam- 
uel Perry, John Charleton and others. 

The adventurers at Big Cove were Andrew Donaldson, John Mac- 
Clelland, Charles Siewan, James Downy, John Macmean, Robert 
Kendell. Samuel Brown, William Shepperd, Roger Murphy, Robert 
Smith, William Dickey, William Millican, William MacConnell, Alex- 
ander MacConnell, James MacConnell, William Carrel, John Martin, 
John Jamison, Hans Patter, John MacoUin, Adam MacConnell, James 
Wilson, John Wilson, and others. 

All the above named had settled on lands not then purchased from 
the Indians, and were warned by government to leave the settlements. 
In May, 1750, Richard Peters, Secretary, accompanied by the sheriff 
of the county and others, proceeded to Path Valley, and burned II cab- 

* In January 1758, two companies, each consisting of upwards of 
one hundred men, were stationed at Littleton, Loudon, Shippens- 
burg and Carlisle; the officers west of the Susquehanna were Lieut. 
Col. John Armstrong, Maj.Hugh Mercer; Captains Hance Hamilton, 
George Armstrong, Edward Ward, Robert Caliender, Wm. Armstrong; 
Lieutenants James Potter, Thos, Smallman, Jacob Sneider, John Pren- 
tice, Henry Geiger, Thos. Hutchins, Wm. Blyth ; Ensigns Frederick 
Van Hamback, Robert Anderson, Hugh Crawford, John Buller, James 
Poilock ^John Philip De Haas, John Conrad Bucher, (see pa. 23.3, 



HISTORY OF BEDFORD COUNTY. 515 

ins; at Aughwick they burnt 1, and in Big Cove 3, and required the 
settlers to enter into recognizance lo appear at the following court. 

The settlers in the Little Cove & Conalloways were Joseph Coombe, 
John Herrod, William James, Thomas Yates, Lewis Williams, Elias 
Siillwell, John Meeser, John Newhouse, Rees Shelby, William Lofton, 
Charles Wood, Henry Pierson, George Rees, William Morgan, John 
Lloyd, Levi Moore, John Graham, William Linn, Andrew Coombe, 
John Polk, Thomas Hasten. 

The next day, after Mr. Peters had left, and while yet at the house of 
Mr. Philip Davies.a number of the inhabitants of Little Cove met, hand- 
ed him the following petition with the request to present it to Governor 
Hamilton. 

We are exceedingly sorry, as well we may, that any part of that let- 
ter sent from the Great Cove to the magistrate of this county should 
have given your Honor any umbrage to suspect we should desire to gel 
rid of being under the government of this Province, and forcibly to 
maintain the possession of these lands on which we at present live ; in 
opposition to your authority. It is, and always has been our strong 
inclination lo enjoy the privileges of the Government of Pennsylvania, 
above these of any other of his Majesty's colonies in America. We 
never did directly or indirectly apply to Maryland for a right to said 
Land, and should anything in said letter seem to insinuate as if we had 
a mind to do so, or should any of our inconsiderate or even guilty ex- 
pressions be reported to you, we hope you will not interpret these things 
to our ruin ; but in mercy forgive them ; for your Honor may know, 
what extremes, people of weak policy, when they see their all in dan- 
ger, may be guilty of. 

Yet suffer us to inform your Honor, notwithstanding of what was 
done by us before, when perplexed and confounded, that the most of us 
did not take up said land, in opposition to the authority ofa Governor's 
proclamation, but after we were informed some in power did permit, 
if not grant liberty to settle said land with honest men ; yet by this we 
would not be understood, as if we would oppose what proceedings your 
Honor might judge necessnry for the safety or interest of the Province 
with regard to us. No, in this we resolve to be entirely at your dispo- 
sal, or that of any whom you may appoint. 

We humbly and earnestly beg, if consistent with the great designs of 
your government, you would permit us yet longer to cultivate these 
lands for the support of our families. But if this cannot be granted, 
that yon would interpose with the Proprietors, for our obtaining a right 
to these plantations, on which we at present live, when said land shall 
be purchased from the Indians, we paying what is due to the Proprie- 
tor, and recommend it to the Secretary to be active for us: on whose 
mercy we would notwithstanding all our folly depend mnch. 

And the blessing of many, who will otherwise be reduced to pinching, 
distressing difficulties, shall come upon your Honor, Sept. 27, 1750. 

Robert Smith, Roger Murphy, John Jamison, Samuel Brown, Robert 
Kendall, William McConnell, John McClellan, Andrew Donallson, 
William McClarell, James Downey, Alexander McConnell, Charles 
Stewart, William Dickey, William Mulligan, John McCoUom, John 
McMeans, John Martin. 

To Gov. Hamilton. 



516 HISTORY OF BEDFORD COUNTY. 

The sufferings of the first settlers of this county during the French 
and Indian war, and at a much later period, were almost intolerable. 
They were exposed for more than 25 years to hostile incursions and 
the depredations of savages. Hundreds fell victims to the relentless 
fury of the Indians. Numerous instances of massacres that happened 
have been related in a preceding part of this compilation. 

From the Provincial Records at Harrisburg, it appears that in the 
upper part of Cunaberland county, 27 plantations were burned, and a 
great quantity of cattle killed ; thata woman 93 years of age was found 
lying killed with a stake run through her body. That ol' 93 families 
which were settled in the Coves and ConoUaways, 47 were either kill- 
ed or taken, and the rest fled, besides numerous of whom no account 
has been preserved, except in the traditions handed down in the mas- 
sacres. 

The following incidents in the history of this county were collected 
by the Hon. George Burd and John Mower, Esq. of Bedford, and ap- 
peared originally in a work on a similar subject: 

The county contained within its present limits, at a very early day, a 
number of forts, erected by the inhabitants for their protection. The 
first, and principal, was Fort Bedford, although that name was only 
given to it when it began to assume the appearance of a settlement. 
The others were Fort Littleton, Martin's fort, Piper's fort, and Wing- 
am's, with several other unimportant ones. Bedford was the only one 
ever occupied by British troops; and about 1770, the earliest period 
of which we have any traditionary account, the walls of it were nearly 
demolished, so that it must have been erected many years before. 

The first settlement, it is conjectured, must have been made prior to 
the year 1750, how long before, cannot be stated wiih any thing like 
accuracy, but I not long since conversed with a very old man, named 
John Lane, who told me that he was born within the present limits of 
the county. His age fixed his birth about 1751, and from the account 
he gave, settlements must have been made several years previous to 
that. It was also before that time that the Indians had made complaints 
of the encroachment of the whites upon their hunting grounds, and 
particularly in the neighborhood of the Juniata. 

As early as 1770, the whites had made considerable settlements 
at a distance from the fort at Bedford, as faras twelve and fifteen 
miles, particularly on Dunning's cr., and on the Shawanee run, near 
the Allegheny mountains, where the tribe of Indians of that name once 
had a town. 

The principal building at Bedford, at that day, of which there is any 
account, was a two story log house, called the " King's House." It was 
occupied by the oflicers of the fort until the marching of the English 
troops at the breaking out of the revolu'ion. It is still standing, and 
is now, with two additions, one of stone, the other brick, occupied as a 
public house. At the time Bedford county was erected, the only build- 
ing in which the court could sit was a one-storied rough log house. It 
was for some time also occupied as a jail. It stood until a few years 
since. 

The town of Bedford was laid out, by order of the governor, in June, 
1766, by the surveyor general, John Lukens. The settlement was or- 
iginally called Raystown, but at the time of laying it out, it was called 
Bedford. This, Mr. Vickroy says, was in consequence of some simil- 



HISTORY OF BEDFORD COUNTY. 517 

arity in its location to a place of the same name in England. [But 
more probably derived from the name of the fort, which was supposed 
to be named in honor of the Duke of Bedford.] 

For a considerable time after the town was laid out, the inhabitants 
had to go upwards of 40 miles to mill. It was then an undertaking that 
occupied sometimes two weeks, those taking grain having to wait until 
others before them were accommodated. The first mill was built near 
the town by an enterprising man named Frederick Naugle, a merchant, 
doing what was, at that day, called a large business. 

For many years Bedford was the principal stopping-place for all per- 
sons, and particularly packers going from the east to Fort Pitt. All 
government stores, as well as groceries and goods of ever description, 
were for a long time carried west on pack-horses. One man would 
sometimes have under his control as many as a hundred horses. For 
the protection of these, guards had always to be supplied, who accom- 
panied them from one fort to another. Bedford always furnished its 
guanls out of that class of ihe militia in service at the time they were 
required. These guards travelled with the packers, guarded their en- 
campment at night, and conducted them safely across the AUeghenics 
to Fort Ligonier, west of Laurel hill. 

At the commencement of the revolution, the county of Bedford fur- 
nished two companies, who marched lo Boston; and although but a 
frontier county, at a distance from the principal scenes of excitement 
and points of information, contained as much of the patriotic spirit of 
the day as could be found anywhere. A meeting was held, composed 
of farmers and the most substantial citizens, who, entering fully into 
the spirit of the revolution, passed a number of resolutions, prohibiting 
the introduction and use of every article of foreign manufacture. 

The prominent men of that day who lived at and about Bedford, were 
Thomas Smith, who held several appointments under the government, 
and was afierwards a judge of the supreme court, Gen. Arthur St. Clair, 
V ho was the first prothonotary of the county, George Woods, county 
surveyor, under whose instructions the city of Pittsburg was laid out, 
Thomas Coulter, Col. Davidson, and Thomas Vickroy, who afterwards, 
in 1783, laid out the city of Pittsburg. He is still living. 

Although the inhabitants were from the time of the first settlements 
constantly on their guard against the Indians, yet the principal troubles 
commenced at the breaking out of the revolutionary war. A frontier 
life at that time was one constant scene of strife and danger. Bedford 
county was at that time the Allegheny frontier, and her inhabitants 
were, consequently, exposed to the full force of savage fury, and se- 
verely did it often fall upon them. The following incidents of those 
times are well authenticated. 

The oldest native of the county living [in 1843] is Wm. Fraser. His 
father left Fort Cumberland about 1758, and came to the fort at Bed-- 
ford. He built the first house outside the fort, and Wm. was the first 
white child born outside the fort. He was born in 17.59, and is now 
about 84 years of age. He was in my office a few days since. He 
had come about 14 miles that morning, and intended returning home 
the same day ; this he frequently does. 

The original white population was composed of Scotch-Irish, and 
their descendants, constituting the frontier settlers. It is said by one, 
whose opportunities for accuracy of research, were favorable, " thai 

44 



518 HISTORY OF BEDFORD COUNTY. 

he county did not prosper much until 1780, or thereabouts, when the 
Germans from Franklin, Cumberland, York and Lancaster, began to 
pour into our fertile vallies and caves. This was not until the Indians 
had ceased to be a terror to the settlers." The Germans here now own 
much of the best land, and form a great proportion of the present pop- 
ulation. 

The religious denominations are Lutheran, German Reformed, Pres- 
byterian, Episcopal Methodist, Protestant Methodist, Catholic, Baptist, 
United Brethren, Evangelical Association, Quaker, Mennonites, Dun- 
kards or German Baptist, Seventh Day Baptist? Church of God or 
Winebrennerians. The Lutheran, German Reformed and Methodist, 
are the most numerous. 

The cause of popular education had been long much neglected 
among the people of this county ; but of late, an increased attention 
has been paid to this all important cause, and seems to advance stea- 
dily. 

The common school system has been adopted in every township ex- 
cept Londonderry, Napier, St. Clair, Southampton and Union. Eigh- 
teen districts have adopted it, in which 127 schools are open for about 
4 months in the year, employing 127 male and 1 female teacher; 2,770 
male and 2,001 female scholars are taught. A district tax of $5,227 6.3 
was raised in 1844; the State appropriation was $4,813 00. Cost of 
instruction $6,450 51. 

Provision for the poor, or paupers, is made in this county. A poor- 
house within the town of Bedford has been established within the last 
4 years. There is connected with it, a farm of upwards of 600 acres. 
The average number of poor is between 30 and 40. 



HISTORY OF ADAMS COUNTY. 



CHAPTER XXXIX. 



ADAMS COUNTY. 



Adams county organized— Controversy— Extract of Court Records.— 
Geological features & Geology of— General statistics— Productions; 
various kinds of, «&c.— Synopsis of census of 1840— Streams in ih 
county — Notice of public improvements. 

When York county was erected, by an act of Assembly, passed Au- 
gust 19, 1744, it embraced " all and singular the lands lying within 
the Province of Pennsylvania, to the westward of the river Susque- 
hanna, and southward and eastward of the South mountain — bounded 
northward and westward by a line from the Susquehanna, along the 
ridge of said South mountain, until intersected the Maryland line, 
southward by the said Maryland line, and eastward by the said river 
Susquehanna," then embracing an area of little more than 1400 square 
miles. 

The ample limits of this old county, were however reduced, but not 
without some considerable opposition from, and was nothing uncom- 
mon at that early period; or at even an earlier period. 

As early as 1735 there was a contest between the Marylanders and 
a number of settlers on the west side of the Susquehanna, One Tho- 
mas Cressap, a restless, quarrelsome individual, and some 50 or 60 of 
kindred spirits with him, resolved upon displacing the first settlers 
who had located under Pennsylvania titles, and to divide their pos- 
sessions according to the agrarian laws of Rome — " To distribute the 
property of the conquered among the victors ;" for Cressap, the head 
of this motly host, had promised his consociates in plunder, 200 acres 
each. Affrays, as a consequence, were the result. Several lives were 
lost. — [See His. York co]. 

In the vicinity of McSherrystown, similar affrays occur at the sacri- 
fice of life. 

As early as 1790, the subject of a division of the county of York, 
was agitated, and soon eventuated in a controversy, between the in- 
habitants of the eastern, or lower end, and the western, and upper end 
of York county, touching a division of the " Old county ;" or the or- 
ganization of a new one, to be taken from the west end. From the na- 
ture of the subject, and disposition of those engaged in it, the contro 
versy grew warm — much zeal was manifested by both \\iepro and anti 
new-county-men. — Long and ardent debates ensued — essays, for and 
against the division, were written, published and industriously circu- 



520 HISTORY OF ADAMS COUNTY. 

lated. Public meetings were called — petitions for, a remonstrance 
against the erection of a new county were circulated, signers thereto 
obtained, and presented to the legislature. Finally, however, after 
much debating, the antagonist party was satisfied and reconciled to the 
organizing of a new county. The legislature passed an act, January 
22, 1800, for dividing Adams county from the western part of York. 

These Commissioners, to mark and run the line, were appointed by 
Thomas McKean, governor of Pennsylvania — these were Jacob Spang- 
ler, deputy surveyor of York county, Samuel Sloan, deputy surveyor 
of Adams county, and Mr. William Waugh. 

The separation of the county was agitated, 1790, commissioners had 
been appointed, namely, James Cunningham, Jonathan Hoge, and 
Janics Johnston, to fix upon a site for the county seat ; they selected a 
tract belonging to Garret Vandsdal, in Strabane township between the 
two roads leading from Hunter's and Geltys' towns to the brick house, 
including part of said road. In 1791 the subject was a second time 
agitated. The Revd. Alexander Dobbin and David Moore, senior, were 
appointed trustees for the county of Adams, with full powers, for them 
or their survivors, to take assurances of all offers for the payment of 
money, or the conveyance or transfer of any property, in trust for the 
use of erecting public buildings in the town of Gettysburg. 

The county then contained 2741 taxables. The first court of Quarter 
Session was held on the second Monday of June 1800. The following 
are extracts from the Record of Court. 

"At a Court of General Quarter Sessions of Peace, opened and held 
at Gettysburg, for the county of Adams, on the second Monday of June, 
A. D. 1800, before William Gilleland, John Agnew and William Scott, 
Esqrs., Associate Judges, &c. 

Proclamation being made, the commissions of the judges were sev- 
erally read from the Books of Records. 

Nicholas Gelwick, Esq., High Sherifl!' for the county of Adams at- 
tended, but as there could be no precepts, or processes to him directed 
at this court, the constables were then called as per list. 

Berwick township, Jacob Noel; Mouni Pleasant, Joseph Lindsay ; 
Mountjoy, Samuel Adair; Cumberland, Emanuel Ziegler ; Heidelberg, 
Jacob Trine; Hamilton Barr, Henry Ferguson; Reading, Valentine 
Hollinger* ; Straban, Samuel M. Reed ; Franklin, Charles Good ; Hun- 
tingdon, John Wireman ; Manallen, Daniel Rice ; Tyrone, Nicholas 
Wertz ; Germany, Martin HoflI'man. 

At a Court of Quarter Sessions, «Stc., Monday, August 4th, 1800, the 
following were Grand Jurors, viz : Alexander Russell, Esq., Walter 
Smith, Esq. John Dickson, Esq. James Brice, George Lasshells, David 
Scott, Thomas Abbott, Peter Ickes, Robert Doyle, Jacob Wertz, Alex- 
ander Cobean, Esq., Henry Kuhn, William Baily, Samuel Russell, sen. 
Henry Walter, Nicholas Dietrick, Robert Campbell, Jacob Greenamay- 
er, Alexander Irwine, John Lees, William Miller. 

The court appointed the following named persons as overseers of 
the poor of the county, viz : 

For Cumberland township, Adam Black and James Sweney ; Ham- 
ilton Barr, Robert Ray and Thomas Merideth ; Liberty, Barnabas Mc- 

* Valentine Hollinger has been constable from 1800 to 1845, till the 
day of his death. 



HISTORY OF ADAMS COUNTY. 521 

Sherry and John Adcur; Franklin, Nicholas Peasecker and Charles 
Shisler; Menallen, John Wright and Henry Petter; Tyrone, William 
Walker and John Duffield ; Huntingdon, John Muntorff and Benjamin 
Wireman ; Reading, Jacob Brugh and John Vance ; Berwick, John 
Null and Peter Marshall; Straban, Robert Graham and John Graft; 
Mount Pleasant, Nicholas Shiely and Coinelius Lott; Mountjoy, Fran- 
cis Allison and Jesse McAllister; Germany, Joseph Stealy and Leon- 
ard Seitzinger. 

Adams county is bounded on the north by Cumberland, east by York, 
south by the state of Maryland, and west by Franklin. Length 27 
miles, breadth 24 miles; area 528 square miles — containing about 
338.000 acres. Population in 1800, 13,172; in 1810, 15,152, in 1820, 
19,370; 1830,21,378; 1844, 23,044. The aggregate amount of pro- 
perly toxable, in 1844, was $4,339,531 00. 

The geological features of this county are diversified. A bell of 
limestone passes through the southeast corner from near Hanover in 
York county, by Litileslown, nearly to the Maryland line, when it 
comes lo a point, being overlapped by the middle secondary red shale 
and sandstone. This latter formation prevails over the greatest por- 
tion of the county, being broken, however, in many places by ridges 
and dikes of trap rock, which form rough and rocky hills. In the upper 
portion of the red shale formation, near the base of the South moun- 
tain, is a belt of calcareous conglomerate, similar to the famous varie- 
gated Potomac marble, which, in some place, would yield blocks sus- 
ceptible of a fine polish. It occurs in great variety and beauty, near 
the village of Fairfield or Millersiown. The South mountain, with its 
protruding ridge, consists chiefly of a hard white sandstone, accompa- 
nied by a variety ol curiously altered recks, highly interesting to the 
scientific geologist. Native copper, together with the blue and green 
carbonate of this metal occurs in the South mountain — and epidote, 
asbestos, zeolite and other minerals are found here. Iron ore occurs 
in several parts of the county, but is not much used. The soil partak- 
ing of ihe several rock formations is of three kinds. The limestone is 
in the south-eastern part, and highly improved. 

The face and soil of this county is diversified. The soil is princi- 
pally of three kinds as slated before, partaking of the several rock for- 
mations, viz : limestone, red shale, trap or sienctic, also flint, sandstone 
and gravel. Limestone is principally found in Conewago and Hun- 
tingdon townships. Agriculture has been much improved within the 
last ten years. The broken portions are not well adapted for cultiva- 
tion. Some of the best, as well as the very worst soil in the state, is 
to be found in this county. The county contains about 338,000 acres 
of land; whereof about 20,000 is limestone, very productive and much 
of it in a high stale of cultivation. The other portion is susceptible of 
improvement ; and no doubt will be much improved when the system 
of farming has reached so near a slate of perfection as in some coun- 
ties of the State. The application ot lime as a stimulating, with other 
manures, and a judicious rotation of crops will conduce much toward 
the improved of the soil. When lime has been tested, it produced 
'i^reat changes. It is worth from 15 lo 20 cents a bushel as a manure. 

Twenty or twenty-five years ago considerable quantities of bread 
stuffs, and feed for horses were brought into this, from other counties ; 
but in 1840, there were raised in it upwards of 200,000 busheLi of 

44* 



522 HISTORY OF ADAMS COUNTY. 

■wheat; nearly 300,000 bushels of rye ; also nearly the same quantity 
of corn, and between 5 and 6,000 bushels of buckwheat, and between 
20 and 25,000 tons of hay, also about 70,000 bushels of potatoes. 

According to the census of 1840, there were in this county, three 
furnaces, which produced 50 tons of cast iron, and consumed 50 tons 
of fuel ; employed ten men including mining operations ; capital in- 
vested $10,000. 

Live Stock — 6,376 horses and mules ; 9,343 neat cattle; 9,140 sheep; 
31,583 swine ; poultry of all kinds is estimated at $7,377. 

Cereal &)aws— 216,666 bushels of wheat ; 1,660 bushels of barley; 
274,960 bushels of oats; 88,561 bushels of rye ; 5,404 bushels of buck- 
wheat ; 290,724 bushels of corn. 

Various products and crops — 26,618 pounds of wool; 69,915 bushels 
of potatoes; 22,809 tons of hay; 172 pounds of silk cocoons; 1,982 
cords of wood were sold ; value of products of the dairy $25,875; value 
of products of the orchard $1,770 ; value of home made goods $7,313 ; 
value of tobacco manufactured $1,100; value of hats and caps manu- 
factured $8,900; 28 tanneries tanned 21,160 sides of sole leather, and 
5,348 of upper; all other manufactories of leather, saddleries, &c. 15 ; 
4,000 pounds of candles were manufactured. 

Distilleries 18 ; produced 80,600 gallons ; two breweries, which pro- 
duced 2,120 gallons: 8 potteries, value of manufactured articles $3,350; 
value of produce of nurseries and florists $1,520. 

Retail dry goods, grocery and other stores 59; 2 lumberyards; 13 
butchers; 72 barrels of tar manufactured ; brick and lime manufactu- 
red, value of $18,577; 3 fulling mills; 5 woollen manufactories; 5 
printing offices ; 5 weekly papers printed ; 1 book bindery ; 42 flour- 
ing mills ; 76 saw mills; 4 oil mills. 






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2. Conewago, 

3. Cumberland, 

4. Franklin, 

5. Freedom, 

6. Gettysburg, 

7. Germany, 

8. Hamilton, 

9. Hamilton Ban. 

10. Huntingdon, 

11. Latimer, 

12. Liberty, 

13. Menallen, 

14. Mountjoy, 

15. Mount Pleasant, 

16. Reading, 

17. Strabane, 

18. Tyrone, 


o 

tn 

H 
p 




o 

a o 

^ 2 
<< 


oooooooootooo^-oooco 


Furnaces. 


^►-OCOt5 0D*>.OOH-K-'050t005W#>.M 


Flouring mills. 


•— l-•oo^^soo©^ft.lwoo•£>•©^^0l^■cno3 


Grist mills. 




Saw mills. 


OCOO©>-^0»0000^-000000 


Oil mills. 


OtS— OOOOOM050WM OCTji— OtO 


Tanneries. 


O — ©>— O — ^5>-'OOC0•-'O•— OtOtSM 


Distilleries, j 




H 


orses «& Mules 




Neat Cattle. 




Sheep. 


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— ooo!ca50oa)W~}O^^M^W'--aioco 


Swine. 


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enOt'St5^05i»oiocnh^-tnoio*»*'a5W 


B 


ushels of 
Wheat. 


0>>— CTlCD^W0000>--tDQ0O COQDi 103 

^9lii.lfe.05^sool^co^scc>w©^f»■o^oaooo 


B 


ushels of 
Rye. 


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Indian corn. 


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e3>©^^c*&4v^^^o^ — t5<!*^H-tocoos© 
ObQD<!©oso•-'^s©^s-405«|^^co^so5>-• 
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Oats. 


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BarleJ^ 


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»^^atf>■cooo<^©^3^5^o*>■(c*©-<f^^»-5 


Potatoes. 


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P 


Tons of hay. 


>— cota>— 1—' mh-os'-' frs >-' 

<!i;».5D<li;i>-' ©00©— ^t!l MCO'— en 
Ol©0000tS©©Ci3Cn©35aJ©©<3500 — o 


ounds of wool 
raised. 


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►— OtnC00'--I010it0*>-Q00i©O*>0l©<t> 


B 


ushels of 
Buckwheat. 


i-.rfkMWi-'i-i ►-i ►-— —• Ml— 

enooi&oM© *-oo ©^>- cstsMO 


"Value of the 
products of the 
dairy. 



HISTORY OF ADAMS COUNTY. 525 

The streams, though numerous, are not large. The Bermudian creek 
rises in Cumberlaud county near the boundary line ; flowing through 
Tyrone, Hunting and Latimore townships ; it receives several small 
streams in its course — it continues its way into York county, and emp- 
ties into the Conewago creek. Its entire length is 22 miles — affording 
water power to 6 or 8 mills. 

Latimore creek rises in Cumberland county, flowing a southerly di- 
rection, and empties into the Bermudian. Muddy creek rises in Hun- 
ting township; flowing in a northeastern direction, it forms the boun- 
dary line between Reading and Latimore townships, and empties into 
the Bermudian in York county. 

Conewago creek rises south of Green Ridge in this county — receiv- 
ing in its course, Oppossum creek. Plum run, Miley's run on the north; 
Beaver dam run, Swift run. Little Conewago, Deep run and Beaver 
f.reek on the south side — running north and northeast enters York co., 
between Paradise and Washington townships — emptying into the Sus- 
quehanna. It affords abundance of water power for mills, &c. 

Oppossum creek rises near the northern boundary of the county, in 
Menalien township, and empties into the Conewago. Plum run— there 
are 2 streams of this name in this county, one a tributary of Rock cr., 
on the line between Strabane and Mount Pleasant townships ; one of 
which rises near the head of Muddy run and is a tributary of the Con- 
ewago. Miley's run rises in Reading — flows south a few miles and 
empties in the Conewago creek west of East Berlin. Beaver dam run 
rises in Straban township, flowing a circuitous course by Hunterstown; 
Jt empties into the Conewago creek. Little Conewago creek rises in 
the southern part of the county, in Germany township, near the Mary- 
land line ; flowing in a northern direction receives many smallstreams. 
Its whole course is 16 miles. Swift run rises in Mount Pleasant twp., 
and in its course receives Brush run, and empties into Big Conewago. 
Deep run rises in Berwick township, and empties into Conewago crk. 
Beaver creek rises in the Pigeon Hills; flowing northward, and emp- 
ties into the Conewago creek, affording water power to several grist 
mills, saw mills, and one or two factories. Rock creek rises in Stra- 
ban twp.; flows southward, and receives in its course, eastward. Plumb 
run, Little's run, and several other streams: its entire course through 
this county is 14 miles. Little's run rises near Little's tavern, in Ger- 
many township, and flows 3 or 4 miles westward, and empties into 
Rock creek. Rock run rises in Cumberland twp.; flowing a southern 
course of 4 miles, and falls into Rock creek. Hunter's run rises in 
Mountjoy twp. flows 6 miles in a southern course, enters Maryland & 
unites with Rock creek. Piney creek rises partly in Maryland and 
partly in Germany twp. In its course, it flows 5 or 6 mile;; through 
the southern part of this county, and then enters Maryland. Mar.-^h 
creek rises south of the Green Ridge; in its course receives North 
Branch and Willoughby's run. Its course within this county is about 
17 miles. Willoughby's run rises in Franklin twp.; flows 6 or 7 miles 
south and empties into Marsh creek. Middle creek rises south of 
Green Ridge in Hamilton and Dan twp,, flowing south, and receives in 
its course Muddy run and several smaller streams. Fiat run is a small 
stream, rising in Liberty twp. and flows into Maryland. Tom's creek 
rises north of Jack's mountain in Hamilton and Ban twp. ; flowing 
south through Liberty twp. it receives several streams. 



526 



HISTORY OF ADAMS COUNTY. 



The several streams of this county afford ample water power for 40 
or 50 flouring mills, 45 grist mills, 80 saw mills, numerous oil mills, 
and factories of various kinds. 

The public improvements are several turnpikes. — The York and 
Gettysburg rail-road was commenced in 1818, is about 29 miles long. 
It was Cdmpleted 1820 at a cost of $4,000 per mile. The turnpike road 
from Hanover to East Berlin passes through the eastern part of the 
county ; another from Carlisle to Hanover, passes through the north- 
eastern and eastern part, by way of Petersburg and York springs. The 
Ohambersburg and Baltimore turnpike passes nearly diagonally from 
the north western to south east part of the county. There is also an- 
other from Gettysburg to Mumraasburg. There is'an unfinished rail- 
road, the far-famed Gettysburg Extension, which was designed as a 
connecting link between the Philadelphia and Columbia rail-road at 
"V ork, and the Baltimore and Ohio rail-road, and the Chesapeake and 
Oh'o canal near Williamsport, Maryland. More than half a million of 
dollars were expended upon in grading the road, before it was sus- 
pended, or perhaps abandoned. From its circuitous route, some whose 
optics were '• vermiculated," styled it "The Tape Worm." 

The common roads are usually kept in good condition, these with the 
turnpikes, and some 15 or 20 well built bridges, afford access to every 
portion of the county, adjacent counties, and to the metropolis of this 
Slate, and Maryland; the latter being the principal market whither the 
farmers go to sell their surplus produce, and the merchants to lay in 
stocks of goods. 



CHAPTER XL. 

GETTYSBURG, PETERSBURG, &C. 

Gettysburg, the county town, its locality, census of 1840, &c.— The 
Evangelical Lutheran Theological Seminary — Pennsylvania Col- 
lege, &c — Petersburg — York sulphur springs — East Berlin — Ab- 
botstown or Borough of Berwick — New Oxford — Hampton — New 
Chester or Pinetown — Hunterstown or Woodstock — Fairview or Mil- 
lerstown — Cashtown — Mummasburg — Heidlersburg — Bendersville, 
or Wilsonsville— Bonaghton — Little town or Peterstown or Peters- 
burg — McSherrystown. 

Gettysburg is within sight of the South Mountain, and cannot be 
surpassed lor its beautiful scenery and salubrious air. It has ever 
been esteemed as one of the healthiest districts in Pennsylvania. It 
is the county seat, and rather in the southern part of it, in Cumber- 



HITORY OF ADAMS COUNTY. 527 

land township between Marsh creek and Rock creek. It is one of the 
best and most travelled routes between Philadelphia and Pittsburg, 
being 114 miles distant from the former, and 180 from the latter place. 
It is about 52 miles from Baltimore, 25 from Frederick city, 30 from 
Hagerstown, and 35 from Harrisburg; with all these places the com- 
munication by public stages is frequent anJ easy, so that it offers pe- 
culiar facilities to persons desirous of passing through, or coming to 
it, from every point of the compass, east, west, north or south, or any 
intermediate point, or from the interior part of Pennsylvania. 
It is as favorable a location, as any other in the Union, for literary and 
theological institutions. Its advantages, in that respect, are presented 
in the sequel. 

The boroughof Gettysburg contained in 1830, a population of 1,473 ; 
in 1840, 1,908. 

The town contains about 300 dwellings, which are generally neat 
and substantial, though not expensive. The public buildings, the 
Court House and public offices are of brick. The inhabitants are in- 
dustrious and enterprising, many ot whom are devoted to mechanical 
pursuits, and particularly to the manufacture of carriages of every de- 
scription, a branch of business which has been commenced here since 
1817. 

Previous to 1818, not a saw was drawn, not a plane pushed, neither 
auger nor wimble turned, a burnisher or a paint brush used, by the 
hand of a Coach Maker in Gettysburg. — In that year, an old shed was 
occupied as a shop, and in which two hands were engaged in making 
repairs to old stages; depending exclusively upon repairing and now 
and then a new stage, for support. — For two years the proprietor had 
to twist and screw to get ahead — and withal, failed in his enterprise. — 
Soon, however, another attempt was made ; and in 1830, there were no 
less than ten or eleven shops, great and small, in successful operation, 
giving at the different branches connected with the business, employ- 
ment to 1.30 workmen. The amount of work sold, is not much short 
of $40,000 — principally disposed of in Maryland and Virginia. 

According to the census of 1830, the town contained 9 stores, one 
furnace, 1 foundry, 2 tanneries, 1 brewery, 1 pottery, 4 printing of- 
fices, 3 weekly newspapers, 1 periodical, 2 colleges, 190 students, 1 
academy, 42 students, 8 schools, 330 scholars. At present (1844) it 
contains 7 schools, 3 male and 4 female teachers; 190 male and 160 
female scholars; district tax raised $1,613 84; state appropriation 
$390 00 ; cost of instruction $1,353 00 ; fuel and contingencies $167 00. 
The town contains 8 churches, viz: Presbyterian, Lutheran, Union, 
Methodist, German Reformed, Independent, Catholic, and African. 

Literary and Theological Institutions, — Gettysburg is distinguished for 
the highly respectable institutions of learning and piety of the place, 
& which constitute the prominent local source of its prosperity. Among 
these, the oldest is the " Theological Seminary of the General Synod 
of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in the United States." This in- 
stitution, which stands related to the Lutheran church at large, and is 
also open to students of all denominations, was established in 1825. 
The early ministers of the Lutheran Church in America, having them- 
selves been educated in the Theological institutions of Germany, and 
having been among the most learned and pious ministers of any de- 
nomination in their day, were deeply impressed with the conviction of 



528 HISTORY OF ADAMS COUNTY. 

their utility, and often expressed a desire to establish one in this coun- 
try. Sundry preparatory measures were adopted by individual Syn- 
ods, which were however not attended with the desired effect. Among 
the motives which led to the establishment of the General Synod, was 
the desire of concentrating the energies of the Church, that they might 
be adequate to the establishment of a respectable Thological Semina- 
ry. Accordingly, at their third session, held at Fredericktown, Mary- 
land, November 1825, the General Synod resolved no longer to defer 
this important matter ; took measures to obtain the necessary funds, 
elected a Board of Directors, and also the Revd. S. S. Schmucker, D. 
D., then pastor of a church in Virginia, as their first professor. At a 
meeting of the Board, held in Hagerstown, the institution was located 
at Gettysburg, not only as having made the largest pecuniary offer, but 
principally as being most central to the whole body of the church. 

By the active and laudable exertions of the Revd. Benjamin Kurtz, 
D. D., who visited Germany for this purpose, about $10,000, and a very 
respectable collection of books were contributed by the Lutheran chur- 
ches in the Father-Land, to aid in establishing this Insliiulion, 

The Professor elect spent the summer of 1825 in visiting the prin- 
cipal Atlantic cities, and then, and in several extended efforts since, 
obtained subscriptions to the amount of more than $25,000, the greater 
part of which has been realized. The Revd. J. G. Schmucker, D. D., 
the Revd. J. Herbst, Revd. Benjamin Keller and Revd. Ruthrauf, sen. 
at the same time visited the Lutheran churches in the interior of our 
country; as has also since been done by the Revds. C. Weyl, F. Ruth- 
rauf, W. Heilig, S. Sprecher, & F, W. Conrad, and thus a secure foun- 
dation was laid, by the divine blessing, for the successful operation of 
the institution. 

The inauguration of Professor Schmucker took place September 5, 
1826, and the instruction of the institution forthwith comirenced. Up- 
wards of two hundred students have already enjoyed the benefits of 
this institution ; the greater part of whom are now preaching the gos- 
pel in the different parts of the Middle, Southern and Western States ; 
and one, the Revd. Gunn, is laboring as a missionary among the Tela- 
goos in Hindostan. 

According to the last Catalogue, the number of students connected 
with the institution, during the current year, was 30. At the same 
time there were between 60 and 70 others in the College & Grammar 
School of the town, preparing to enter the Seminary. 

The Seminary edifice is a plain, but handsome four story brick build- 
ing, 100 by 40, situated on a commanding eminence about half a mile 
to the west of the town, of which it commands a beautiful view. A 
number of rooms have been furnished by congregations and benevo- 
lent individuals, by which the expenses of the indigent students are 
materially diminished. At a short distance on each side of ihe Semi- 
nary are the Professor's houses, likewise constructed of bricks. 

By the industry and taste of the students, the yard around the Semi- 
nary edifice was, at an early day, beautifully improved by flower beds 
and ornamental trees. Handsome walks, shaded by trees, were also 
more recently made from the Seminary to the public roads, which pa'ss 
equi-distant on either side of it ; and within the present year, a larger 
avenue, 40 feet wide, lined by two rows of ornamental trees, has been 
opened by them, directly in front of the Seminary, extending about a 



HISTORY OF ADAMS COUNTY. 529 

quarter of a mile to the turnpike. The following gentlemen have beea 
appointed Professors of the Institution, according to dates, as follow : 

S. S, Sc.hmucker, D. D. 1825, E.L. Hazelius, D. D. 1830, C.P.Krauth, 
D. D. 1833, H. J. Smith, A. M. 1839, C. A. Hay, A. M,, 1844. The pres- 
ent Faculty are Samuel S. Schmucker, D. D. Chairman of the Faculty 
and Professor of Didactic and Polemic, Homeletic and Paste; a! Theolo- 
gy. Charles P. Krauth, D. D. Professor ol Sacred Philology and Exe- 
gesis. Charles A. Hay, A. M. Professor of Biblical Literature, &c. 

The Library of the institution is one of the most valuable collections 
of Theological works in this country, containing about 7,500 volumes, 
three-fourths of which, written in all the languages of Europe, and 
treating of every branch of Theological science, were procured in 
Germany by the Revd. Benjamin Kurtz, D. T). and the remainder, con- 
sisting of the latest and best works of English and American Theolog- 
ical Literature, were obtained by the exertion of Dr. S. S. Schmucker. 

There are two Societies in the Seminary; one the Society of Inquiry 
on Missions, and the other the Theological Society. Tuition, use of 
Library and rooms, are gratis. 

The Seminary is in a flourishing condition, and the healthiness of 
the situation, the moderate expense, the advantages of a good library, 
the acknowledged high standing of the faculty, warrant the hope, that 
this institution is destined to become, yearly, more useful to .the cause 
of the Redeemer. 

The government, design and character of this institution may be 
more fully learned from the following extracts from its Statutes and 
Constitution. 

Whereas, The General Synod regard it as a solemn duty imposed on 
them by their Constitution, and due from them to their God and to the 
("hurch, to provide for the proper education of men ofpiety and talents, 
for the Gospel Ministry: — Therefore, 

Resolved, That the General Synod will forthwith commence, in the 
name of the Tffune God, and in humble reliance on his aid, the e.s- 
tablishment of a Theological Seminary, which shall be exclusively vle- 
voted to the glory of our Divine Redeemer, Jesus Christ, who is God 
over all, blessed forever. And that in this Seminary shall be taught, 
in the German and English languages, the fundamental doctrines of the 
Sacred Scriptures, as contained in the Augsburg Confession. 

That this Institution shall be under the sole government of a Board 
of Directors, which shall regularly meet semi-annually, and as often 
at intermediate times as they may think expedient. This Board are 
not, in any respect, under the control of the General Synod ; but each 
member is responsible, individually, to the Synod by which he is elec- 
ted. 

That this Board consist of five Directors, viz : three pastors aod 
two laymen from each Synod, which is connected with the General 
Synod,- aud contributes pecuniary aid to the support of the Seminary. 

That the General Synod elect the first Board of Directors agreeably 
to the preceding article, whose term of service shall be determined by 
their respective Synods; after which, the several Synods shall elect 
their Directors in such manner, and for such time, as may be deemed 
most expedient by themselves: Provided always. That one half of 
their quota of Directors vacate their seats at one and the same time. 

That a Professor shall be elected by the General Synod, after wbiea 

45 



530 



HISTORY OF ADAMS COUNTY. 



the Board of Directors shall forever have the exclusive authority of 
electing additional Professors and filling up all vacancies. 

Any Professor may be impeached, at any time, for fundamental er- 
ror in doctrine, immorality of deportment, inattention to the duties of 
his office, or incapacity to discharge them; and, if found guilty, may 
be dismissed from office, by two-thirds of the Directors present : Pro- 
vided always. That a motion for impeachment be made at one semi- 
annual meeting, and lie over for consideration until the next ; and that 
the Secretary of the Board of Directors be required to give written no- 
tice to every Director absent from said meeting, within four weeks after 
the meeting at which such motion was made. 

The Directors are responsible lor their conduct to the respective 
Synods by which they were elected, and may be removed for such 
causes, and in such manner as said Synods shall specify. 

Constitution.— The design of this institution is, to provide our 
churches with pastors who sincerely believe, and cordially approve of, 
the doctrines of the Holy Scriptures, as they are fundamentally taught 
in the Augsburg Confession, and who will therefore teach them in op- 
position to Deists, Unitarians, Arians, Antimonians, and all other fun- 
damental errorists. 

To meet the exigencies of our Churches, many cf which require 
Ministers capable of preaching in both the German and English lan- 
guages. 

To educate for the Ministry poor young men of piety and talents; by 
affording them gratuitous instruction, and, as far as the funds will ad- 
mit, and their necessary requires, defraying also their other necessary 
expenses. 

To make the future ministers of the Church devoted, and deeply 
pious men ; by educating a number of them ^jnid circumstances most 
favorable to the growth of genuine godliness, and affording the most 
powerful stimulus to its attainment. 

To make the future Ministers of the Church zeaRius and learned 
men ; workmen that need not to be ashamed, being qualified rightly to 
divide the word of truth, and to give unto each hearer his portion, 
both of instruction and edification, in due season. 

To promote unanimity of views and harmony of feelings, among 
the Ministers of the Church, by having a large number educated by 
the same teachers, and in the same course of study; and thus to ena- 
ble them to co-operate more effectually in promoting the kingdom of 
the Redeemer. 

To increase the number of Ministers, and make it commensurate 
with the increasing wants of the Church. 

The Board of Directors shall inspect the fidelity of the Professors, 
as well with regard to the doctrines actually taught, as to the manner 
of teaching them. If any just reason be given them to suspect the 
orthodoxy, or piety, or habitual diligence, or capacity of a Professor, 
or his devotedness to the Lutheran Church, it shall be their sacred 
duty to institute an investigation at the next regular meeting; or, if the 
case be one of fundamental heterodoxy, they shall call a special meet- 
ing for the purpose. If, after candid and deliberate examination, they 
shall judge any Professor guilty of either of the above charges alleged 
against him, it shall be their sacred duty to depose him from office, to 
appoint immediately some suitable Minister of our Church to conduct. 



HISTORY OP ADAMS COUNTY. 531 

pro tempore, the instruction of the Seminary, (requiring of him the 
same doctrinal profession, and oath of office, as of the Professor) and 
to take^the earliest constitutional measures to elect a new Professor. 

At every stated meeting of the General Synod, the Board shall for- 
ward to said Body in writing, a detailed and faithful account of the 
state of the Seminary. 

In their efforts to promote the grand designs of this Seminary, and 
in short, in all their official acts, the Directors shall conform to the 
Constitution of the Seminary, and the statutes on which it is founded: 
and if, at any time, they should act contrary thereto, or transcend the 
powers therein granted them, the party deeming itself aggrieved, may 
have redress by appeal to the judges of the Supreme Court of Pennsyl- 
vania, who are hereby constituted and authorized to judge in such ca- 
ses, and a majority of whom may declare null and void any decision 
of this Board, from which an appeal is made to them, and which, after 
mature deliberation, they believe to be contrary to the Constitution of 
this Seminary, or the Statutes on which it is founded, and with which 
itniustever harmonize. 

Every Professor elect of this Institution.shall on the day of his inaug- 
uration, publicly pronounce and subscribe the oath of office required 
efthe Directors, and also, the following declaration: "I solemnly de- 
clare in the presence of God and the Directors of this Seminary, that I 
do EX ANiMo, believe the Scriptures of the Old and New Testament to 
be the inspired word of God, and the only perfect rule of faith and prac- 
tice. I believe the Augsburg Confession and the Catechisms of Lu- 
ther to be a summary and just exhibition of the fundamental doctrines 
of the word of God. I declare that I approve of the general principles 
of church government adopted by the Lutheran church in this coun- 
try, and believe them to be consistent with the word of God. And I do 
solemnly promise not to teach any thing, either directly or by insinua- 
tion, which shall appear to me to contradict, or to be in any degree 
more or less remote, inconsistent with the doctrines or principles 
avowed in this declaration. On the contrary, I promise, by the aid of 
God, to vindicate and inculcate these doctrines and principles, in oppo- 
sition to the views of Atheists, Deists, Jpws,Socinians, Unitarians, Ari- 
ans, Universalists, Pelagians, Antinomians, and all other errorists, while 
I remain a Professor in this Seminary." 

The preceding declaration shall be repeated by each Professor at 
the expiration of every term of 5 years, in the presence of the Direc- 
tors : and at any intermediate time, if required to do so by a vote of the 
Board of Directors. And no man shall be retained as Professor who 
shall refuse to make and repeat this declaration, in the manner and at 
the times above specified. 

Course of Study, Exavmiaiion and Vacation. — The regular course of in- 
struction and study in the Seminary, shall embrace the following bran- 
ches : Greek and Hebrew, Philology, Sacred Geography, Sacred Chro- 
nology, Biblical and Profane History corrected, Jewish Antiquities, 
Philosophy of the Mind, Evidences of Christianity, Biblical Criticism, 
Exegetical Theology, Biblical Theology, Systematic Divinity, Practi- 
cal Divinity, Ecclesiastical History, Polemic Theology, Church Gov- 
ernment, Composition and Delivery of Sermons, and Pastoral Theology. 

Particular attention shaU be paid to the German language, and the 



532 HISTORY OF ADAMS COUNTY. 

course of studies shall be so regulated, that a due portion of them may 
be pursued in the German language by all the students who wish. 

There shall be two vacations in each year, of six weeks continuance 
each, to commence on the third Thursday of April and September. 
When the third Thursday of April falls into the week of Good Friday, 
the spring vacation shall begin one week later. 

Of the devotional exercises of Students. — It ought to be considered as 
an object of primary importance by every student of the Seminary, not 
to lose that inward practical sense of the power of godliness which he 
may have attained, nor to suffer his intellectual pursuits at all to im- 
pair it ; but on the contrary, to aim at constant growth in piety and 
enlightened zeal for the interests of religion. 

Religious exercises shall be performed every morning and evening 
during term time, either by the Professors, or such Students as they 
shall appoint. In the morning a devotional chapter or psalm shall be 
read, and a prayer offered up. In the evening a hymn shall be sung, 
and the services concluded with prayer. 

Every Student shall constantly, and punctually, and seriously, at- 
tend these religious exercises ; as well as all the stated public worship 
in the Church. 

This important institution has received several small legacies from 
the friends of religion, and it is to be hoped will hereafter be similarly 
remembered by those who feel it a duty and a privilege to consecrate 
a portion of their early substance to the cause of the Redeemer. 

Pennsylvania College. — This had its origin in the want of the German 
community in general, and especially of the Theological Seminary. 
Some of the applicants for admission to that institution, being found 
deficient in classical attainments, they resolved May 16 1827, to estab- 
lish a Preparatory School, to be under their direction, and appointed 
S. S. Schmucker, D. D., and the Revd. J. Herbst to select a teacher and 
carry their resolution into effect. The Revd. D. Jacobs, A. M., was 
chosen, and in June, 1827, the school went into operation, as a prepa- 
ratory department of the Seminarv, although students of every descrip- 
tion were always received into it. From this humble beginning it gra- 
dually rose to importance and influence. In 1829, when the County 
Academy, in which the school was held, was sold for debt, it was pur- 
chased by Dr. Schmucker, who divided the price of the cost to him, 
into shares of $50, and invited the prominent ministers in different 
pares of our country to purchase shares, and join with him under cer- 
tain articles of agreement, giving to the stockholders the management 
of the fiscal interests, and to the Directors and Professors ot the The- 
ological Seminary, the selection of teachers and regulation of the 
course and study and discipline, and assuming the title of Gettysburg 
Gymnasium. Under this concentration of interest, the number of pu- 
pils grew with increasing rapidity. In 1830, Revd. Mr. Jacobs died, 
and was succeeded in 1831 by Revd. H. L. Baugher, A. M. As the pros- 
pects of successfulness, especially to the German community of our 
country, who were at ihat time without any collegiate institution of 
their own, continued to brighten, measures were adopted, chiefly thro' 
the exertions of Dr. S. S. Schmucker, to obtain a charter from the Le- 
gislature, by which the Gettysburg Gymnasium was erected into a 
College, under the name of Pennsylvania College. Under these fa- 
vorable auspices, the College was organized on the day of Americaa 



HISTORY OP ADAMS COUNTY. 533 

f nd€p€n<!«nc€, July 4:lh, 1832, on which occasion the Hon. C. Blyihe 
delivered an appropriate oration ; and in October following went into 
full operation. The Trustees immediately appointed Professors in the 
different departmeats. Drs. Schmucker and Hazelius of the Theolog- 
ical Seminary, by request of the Board, officiated temporarily and gra- 
tuiiously; the former as Professor of Intellectual and Moral Science, 
and the latter as Professor of the Latin language, until the funds of the 
institution would justify the appointment of additional teachers. Rev. 
H. L. Baugher and Mr. Jacobs, who had already established a high re- 
putation as teachers in the Gymnasium, were regularly appointed, the 
first as Professor of the Greek Language & Literature, and the second 
as Professor of Mathematics and the Physical Sciences. In October, 
1834, the Revd. C. P. Krauth, D. D., a gentleman of established schol- 
arship and learning and connected with the Faculty of the Seminary, 
was inducted into his office as President of the College. Other teach- 
ers were successively added, until the present faculty embraces in it 
an amount of talent, learning and experience, surpassed by no institu- 
tion in the State. 

Revd. C. P. Krauth, D. D., President, and Professor of Intellectual & 
Moral Science. Revd. H. L. Baugher, A. M., Professor of Greek Lan- 
guage and Literature, Rhetoric and Oratory. Revd. M. Jacobs, A. M., 
Professor of Mathematics, Chemistry & Mechanical Philosophy. Revd. 
W. M. Reynolds, A. M., Professor of Latin Language and Literature. 
M. L. Stoever, A. M., Professor of History and Principal of the Prepar- 
atory Department. Rev. Charles A. Hay, A. M., Professor of German 
Language and Literature. Herman Haupt, A. M., Professor of Mathe- 
matics. Rev. W. H. Harrison, Assistant Professor of Languages. Da- 
vid Gilberi, M. D„ Lecturer on Anatomy and Physiology. John G. Mor- 
ris, D. D., Lecturer on Zoology. 

There are two Literary Societies — the Philomatheon and the Phrena- 
kosmian — which exert a favorable influence on the improvement of the 
young men in these important studies. 

The course of instruction in the Preparatory Department, which is 
m a very flourishing condition, embraces a solid and thorough English 
Education, whilst those h ho desire to prepare for business, or for Col- 
lege, have every advantage for the acquisition of the elements of Math- 
ematics and the Latin, Greek, German and French languages. For 
those who propose taking a regular Collegiate Education, the course 
of instruction contemplates a period of 3 years, but the student is ta- 
ken through in a longer or shorter period according to his attainments, 
abilities and application. 

Libraries and Apparatus. — The College Library, to which the stu- 
dents have access, contains many valuable works and is regularly in- 
creased by annual appropriations for that purpose. The Libraries of 
the Phrenakosmian and Philomatheon Societies also comprise a lafe 
number of well selected volumes. 

Linnaeun Society. — The object of this Society is to promote cause of 
Science in the Institution, by fostering among its members a spirit of 
investigation and a love for the works of God. For this purpose they 
are increasing the Cabinet by Zoological Specimens, Minerals, Dried 
Plants, Fossils, (^ins. Antiquities, and such curiosities. 

* • * * The College edifice is a short distance from the town. 
It is a chaste specimen of the Doric order of architecrure, coftsistin^' 

45* 



534 HISTORY OF ADAMS COUNTY. 

of a central building and two wings, with end projections, front and 
rear. Whole length 150 feet. The building is four stories high, of 
brick, painted white, making a very imposing appearance. It is well 
aired by a spacious hall, and passages on every floor, the whole length 
of the building. The number of students at present connected with 
the college, including its preparatory department is upwards of 150. 

lu addition to these Theological & Literary Institutions, Gettysburg 
has a Female Seminari/, under the charge of Mr. H. Haupt, who has 
for some years been known as our able and successful teacher. The 
entire arrangements of the institution are such, as to merit the confi- 
dence and encouragement of those, who wish to give their daughters, 
or wards a decidedly useful, as well as ornamental education. 

Petersburg, Si post village, in Huntingdon township, is on the Carlisle 
and Hanover turnpike road, 14 miles from the former, and 16 irom the 
latter; 14 from Gettysburg, and 21 from York. The State road from 
Harrisburg to Frederick city also passes through here. The town con- 
tains about sixty dwellings, many of which are substantial brick edifi- 
ces, three brick churches; a Lutheran, a Presbyterian and an Episco- 
pal ; an Academy, which was erected in 1826, and a Lyceum number- 
ing sixty members; 3 stores ; 3 taverns ; an extensive Coach Manu- 
factory, a tanyard and the usual number of handicrafts found in coun- 
try villages. 

The town was laid out about the year 1803 or '4, by Peter Fleck who, 
and Isaac Saddler, erected the first two houses in the place; soon af- 
terwards Jacob Gardener, Joshua Speakman, Vincent Pilkington and 
others added dwellings. — It is now quite a brisk place for business. A 
good public school and an academy are supported by the inhabitants 
of the place and vicinity. 

Thi York Sulphur Springa, are within a mile and a half of Petersburg. 
They wore discovered in 1790, on a plantation of Mr. Jacob Ficks, who 
had the qualities of the water analized by M. Heterick and Dr. James 
Hall, who ascertained that it contained ingredients highly valuable for 
their medicinal effects ; and when this was made known, crowds soor 
flocked together to try the virtue of the water. Tradition has it, that 
deer and other game, guided by instinct, frequented the pool, before the 
country was settled, because the saline properties of the water attracted 
them. 

The first building? erected at the Springs, were owned by Messrs. 
Joseph Worley and Long ; a Mr. Lowrey made some additions after- 
wards; Mr. McCosh improved the appearance of the place very much. 
The Springs are now owned by Messrs. Pennington and Baggs of Bal- 
timore, and are kept by Mr. Arnold Gardner. It has been for a long 
time a favorite place of resort, of the wealthy citizens of Baltimore 
and from other parts of the country. 

East Berlin is a neat, and pleasantly situated post town in Hamilton 
township. It was laid out in 1764 by one John Frankenberger, who 
had settled here nearly a century ago. — He named it Berlin. Mr. 
Fuankenberger, the proprietor, disposed of his interest in 1774 to Peter 
Houshill; who, in 1782 sold to Andrew Comfort. In 1794 John Hilde- 
brand became proprietor. The first house, it appears that was erected 
after the town had been laid out, was built by Charles Himes in 1765 ; 
the second by Jacob Sarbach in 1766; the third by James Mackey in 
1767, who opened a small store, and was the first tobacco seller in Ber- 
lin. 



HISTORY OF ADAMS COUNTY. 535 

The first English school taught here, or in the vicinity, was opened 
by Robert John Chester, an Englishman, in 1769. — He afterwards 
turned his mind to keeping tavern in the new village. The Conewago 
flowing hard by affords mill power— Peter Lane, a German, erected a 
mill about 1769 at the west end of the town. Thirty years after it had 
been built, a freshet swept it away. 

The progress of the town had been rapid and a considerable stir of 
business caused, being a thoroughfare place from the northern part of 
York and Cumberland counties in Baltimore; but like many other 
villages of equally rapid growth, it met with its reverses, owing to the 
construction of other roads, and modes of transporting produce from 
Cumberland &c. to Baltimore, much, if not nearly the whole of wagon- 
ing through here, was diverted from this point. 

The town consists of 84 dwellings, 3 taverns, 3 stores, 3 apotheca- 
ries, 2 school houses, 1 Union church, held in common by the Luther- 
anr and German Reformed; a public library; a sunday school, and 
one or two other institutions, having for their object the improvement 
of mind and morals. There are 2 grist mills, a fulling mill, &c. near 
the town; one on Beaver creek, southeast of the town, and the others 
on the Conewago, north of it. A printing press has been in operation 
for some time. Population 410. 

Abbottstown, or Borough of Berwick, a post village of Berwick twp.. 
on the turnpike road leading from York to Gettysburg, 14 miles east 
from the latter place. The Hanover and Berlin turnpike road and the 
York and Gettysburg turnpike road intersect within the borough. — 
This town was laid out some time in 1753, by John Abbet. The first 
lot sold here, was purchased by Jacob Pattison, October 19, 1763 — 
Beaver creek, a tribuary of the Conewago flows near by it, forming 
the boundary line between York and Adams counties. The borough, 
which was incorporated in 1835, contains between 40 and 60 dwellings, 
4 taverns, 3 stores, 1 apothecary, a printing office, owned by W. F. 
Koehler, Esq., who edits and publishes a German paper called " Der 
Intelligencer." There are two churches here, one belonging to the 
German Reformed, and the other to the Lutherans; also a public school 
house. A union Sunday school consisting of abo^it 80 or 90 scholars. 
The population is German. The usual number of handicrafts are 
found here. 

Nav Oxford, a post village, of Berwick township, on the turnpike 
road leading from York to Gettysburg, 10 miles east of the latter place 
was laid out in 1792 by Henry Kuhn, it consists of 33 dwellings, 2 
stores, I tavern, 1 Union church held in common by the German Re- 
formed and Lutherans, 1 school house and a literary institute called, 
"New Oxford College and Medical Institution." The institution has 
not, as yet, been patronized commensurately with the eflTorts of its 
stockholders and proprietors. Meilys stand has been kept as a public 
house for nearly a century — for many years, familiary known as 
" Butcher Frederick's stand." This village is pleasantly situated in a 
level country. 

Hnmjitoii, a post village, of Reading township on the Carlisle and 
Hanover turnpike road, twelve miles east of Gettysburg, six from Pe- 
tersburg and ten from Hanover, was laid out by Dr. John B. Arnold 
and Daniel Deardorff in 1814 ; it consists of about 30 dwellings, 2 
taverns 2 stores. The first house erected here was built by David 



536 HISTORY or adams county. 

Albert. There is a Union church here erected in 1844 ; and. a school 
house. The population is about 180. 

New Chester or Pinetown, usually so called, because of a pine ridg« 
contiguous to it — is a post village in Strabane township, was laid out 
in 1804, by Henry Martzsaal ; consists of some 15 dwellings, 2 stores, 
1 tavern, 1 school. This village is about 9 miles from Gettysburg; 
situated in a somewhat rugged country, and within a bend of the Con- 
ewago creeek. There is a German Reformed and Lutheran church a 
little south west of it. 

Huniirsiowti, formerly called Wood Stock, a post village, of Strabane 
township, nearly centrally situated in the town, on ihe road from East 
Berlin to Gettysburg, six miles from the latter place ; contains be- 
tween 15 and 20 dwellings, 1 store and I tavern. Beaver Dam creek 
flows close here. The surrounding country is level. 

Fairfield or Milkrstmvn, a post village in Hamilton-ban twp. 10 miles 
southwest of Gettysburg, contains 50 dwellings, several stores and ta- 
vern*;, 2 churches, a school-house, and a number of mechanics' shops. 
It is quite a brisk place ; situated in a region of country well cultiva- 
ted and productive — the scenery imposing — a fine view is had of Jacks 
mountain. There is some iron ore west of the village. 

Cas/i^ou'M, a fine village in Franklin township, 8 miles northwest of 
Gettysburg, on the turnpike road to Chambersburg, contains 20 dwell- 
ings, a tavern and store, and several mechanics' shops. The north 
branch of Marsh creek flows past, near the village. The soil is con- 
siderably improved and productive. 

Mummasburg, on Little Marsh creek, in Franklin twp.. is a small 
town, containing about 25 dwellings, store, tavern, and school-house. 
A turnpike road extends from Gettysburg to this town. 

Ueidlersbiirg, a small village in Tyrone township, on the road leading 
from Petersburg to Gettysburg, and on the road westward from East 
Berlin, containing about 15 dwellings, store, tavern, school-house and 
several mechanics' shops — nine miles northeast from Gettysburg. 

Bendcrsvilk or WilMnviUc, in Manallen township, is 10 miles north of 
Gettysburg, on the State road leading from the latter place to Newville 
in Cumberland county. It is near the base of the South mountain, five 
miles from the Laurel forge, and the same distance from Pine Grove 
lurnace. 

It was laid out about 12 or 13 years ago; but did not thrive till 1840, 
when an impetus was given to ii, and soon some 20 houses were erect- 
ed ; at present it numbers 23 dwellings, principally brick, with a few 
frame, stone and log houses — the latter rough cast or weather-boarded. 
The village presents a neat appearance. 

The Methodist Episcopal Church is the only one at present in the 
place ; by the liberality of this body of Christians, the German Reform- 
ed have, for the last 3 years, occupied, once a month, this house of 
worship. The Lutherans and German Reformed have erected one 
recently. 

Bonaghton or Bonnigstown, is a small village in Mount Pleasant twp., 
oa the road leading from Gettysburg to Petersburg, about five miles 
from each. Here three main roads branch off, viz: to Gettysburg, to 
Hunterstown,and to New Oxford. The soil of the country around is 
red shale— with careful cultivation is rendered productive. 

Littlestomi or Petersburg, a brisk town, in Germany twp., on the road 



HISTORY OF ADAMS COUNTY. 537 

leading from Gettysburg to Maryland, consists of about 50 dwellings, 
several stores, a tavern, and an academy, in which the higher branch- 
es are taught. The town is pleasantly situated, in a fertile, highly im- 
proved country. 

McSherrystown, (on the main road leading from Hanover to Lashels 
tavern, on the turnpike) in Conewago twp. 3 miles from Hanover, is a 
small village, containing 25 dwellings, a store and tavern ; and a flour- 
ishing' school of advanced standing, under the auspices of the Catho- 
iics — situated in a fertile region of country. 



CHAPTER XLI. 

BOUNDARY LINE BETWEEN MD. &• PA. 

Controversy touching the boundary line — Boundary line defined and 
settled— Diggets' choice, &c — Kitzmiller shoots Dudly Digges — Trial 
and acquittal — Adam Farney assaulted, beaten and taken to Balti- 
more — Petition touching the conduct of disorderly persons. 

For along time, from 1682 to 1760, there was an unsettled dispute 
touching the boundary line between the Province of Pennsylvania and 
Maryland. The controversy occasionally grew warm, and while it 
lasted, was stirring and exciting — nay, blood was, in several instances 
shed, in encounters arising from the unsettled and undefined boundary 
line. The Cressap case has already been cited. The following is here 
inserted, defining the boundary line &c. 

The boundaries of Pennsylvania as descril ed in the royal charter by 
King Charles, the second, to William Penn, the first founder of the 
Province, are as follows: "All that tract or part of land in America, 
with the islands therein contained, as the same is bounded on the 
east by Delaware river, from twelve miles distance northward of New 
Castle town, unio the three and fortieth degree of northern latitude, if 
the said river doth extend so far northward ; but if the said river shall 
not extend so far northward, then by the said river so far as it doth ex- 
tend, and from the head of the said river, the eastern bounds are to be 
aetermined by a meridian line, to be drawn from the head of the said 
river unto the forty-third degree; the said land to extend westward 
five degrees in longitude, to be computed from the said eastern bounds ; 
and the said lands to be bounded on the noith by the beginning of the 
three and fortieth degree of northern latitude, and on the south, by a 
circle drawn at twelve miles distance from New Castle northward, 
and westward unto the beginning of the fortieth degree of north lati- 
tude, and then by a straight line westward to the limits of longitude 
above mentioned." 
There was a series of contention between the proprietaries of Mary- 



538 



HISTORY OF ADAMS COUNTY. 



land, concerning the boundaries and extent of iheii Provifices, from 
the time of the original grant of Pennsylvania till the year 1732, when 
they entered into articles of agreement for the settlement and establish- 
ment of their boundaries, by which it was agreed, that a due north 
line should be drawn from the tangent point of the twelve mile circle 
of New Castle so far only until it should come unto the same latitude 
fifteen English statute miles due south of the most southern part of the 
city of Philadelphia; and that a due east and west line should be run 
in manner following: — 

To begin at the northern pointer end of the said due south & north 
line, and should from thence run due west across Susquehanna river 
to the utmost extent o( the province of Pennsylvania, which said east ' 
and west line was to be the lines of division between Maryland and 
Pennsylvania. And these lines are established as the boundaries be- 
tween them, by a decree of Chancery in England, after a long, tedious 
and expensive suit, instituted in that court, by the proprietaries of 
Pennsylvania against the proprietary of Maryland, for a specific per- 
formance of those articles. 

In the year 1760 another agreement was made between the proprie- 
taries of these two provinces, Frederick, Lord Baltimore of Maryland, 
and Thomas and Richard Penn, of Penna., rectifying and ratifying the 
agreement of 1732, and the decree aforesaid, and this latter agreement 
was also established by a decree of Chancery. These lines were run 
bv Jeremiah Dixon and Charles Mason, commissioners, on both sides, 
in consequence of the several agreements and decrees, and at the joint 
petition of the proprietaries of each province, the agreements and de- 
crees, and the execution of them were ratified by his Majesty and coun- 
cil on the 1 1th day ot January, 1769, so that those divisional lines thus 
established, and the charter bounds of Pennsylvania, so far as the pro- 
vince of Maryland does not interfere according to the agreements and 
decrees aforesaid were established as the reputed bounds of Pennsyl- 
vania; and which, however, are considerably short of the intention of 
the original grant, which appears by the minutes of council at the time 
ol the grant, and from the expressions of the grant itself, to have been 
an extent of three degrees of tatitude and five of longitude; from which 
the province of Maryland took off about 50 miles in latitude in the full 
extent of Maryland from east to west. — [Answers to Earl of Dartmouth 
1775.] , 

Prior to the adjustment of the boundary line, settlements had been 
made under Maryland rights, north of the fixed boundary. This was 
the case in Conewago township, especially as to Digges' choice, out 
of which grew not only inconveniences, afterwards loudly complained 
of: but blood was shed. 

The following facts relate to this choice. John Digges, as tradition 
has it, was advised by a noted Indian chief, Tom, of an excellent tract 
of land, at present within the limits of Heidelberg township, York 
county, and Conewago and German townships in Adams county. 

Oct. 14, 1727 a warrant was granted to John Digges for 10,000 acres 
of land, which was continued by renewments until April 1st 1732, on 
which renewal of survey was made, April 18, 1832, of 6,822 acres, 
and certificate of survey by course and distances only, except the clos- 
ing line, returned. Oct. 11, 1735, patent issued for the 6,822 acres, 
without any thing particular in it; May 25, 1738, Royal order was made 



HISTORY OF ADAMS COUNTY. 539 

(see below). July 15, 1745, John Digges petitioned for a re-survey of 
the land, suggesting errors, and praying the addition of contiguous va- 
cancy. July 15, '45 warrant issued according to the prayer of the pe- 
titioner, directing a re-survey, correct errors, and add vacancy, whether 
cultivated or otherwise. Aug. 1st '45 re-survey was made, and returned 
and accepted by Lord Baltimore, Agent and Land office — no errors in 
the original survey mentioned ; but 3,679 acres, expressed vacancy, 
added without saying cultivated or uncultivated. Oct. 18, '45 patent is- 
sued for the rc-surveyed land. This tract fell four miles north of the 
temporary line of 1732. 

In 1737 Martin Kitzmiiler made a purchase of some lands near to 
Digges' first patented tract at Conewago, and the next year built a 
house and mill, and made considerable improvements, and was in pos- 
session of ihem at the time of the Royal order, and paying taxes and 
dtd the duties of an inhabitant of Pennsylvania. In 1747 he obtained a 
warrant for his lands from the proprietaries of Pennsylvania, bearing 
date the 5th of Feb. 1747; notwithstanding which, in Feb. 1752, a man, 
a perfect stranger to Martin Kitzmiiler, pretending to be a Maryland 
officer, accompanied by Dudley Digges, came upon the plantation of 
Martin Kitzmiiler, which was 4 miles to the north of the temporary 
line — out of the line of Digges' first survey, and arrested him at the 
suit of John Digges. Martin Kitzmiiler and his family judging this an 
unlawful act, resisted the pretended officer — upon which the persons 
who came with him went to his assistance. Several blows passed on 
each side, until one of Martin Kitzmiller's sons shot Dudley Digges and . 
wounded him that he died.* They were tried on a charge of murder 
in York county and acquitted. The place where the act was commit- 
ted, being fully proved by a variety of evidence, to have been in the 
last survey of Digges, and consequently in Pennsylvania. On this 
trial it was proved the pretended officer was not one, and had no writ 
or warrant to justify the arrest — from whence all persons present con- 
cluded Digges had never obtained one. 

After the trial and acquittal of the Kitzmillers, an indictment was 
found against the pretended officer and all concerned with him in the 
riot. The case was tried at York. 

The above was not the only case of WHmot's attempting to seize 
individuals at the suit of John Digges. He had previously arrested 
Adam Farney and carried him down to Baltimore. 

On the 26th Jan. 1746, John Wilmct, who called himself the under 
sheriff of Baltimore county, Maryland, upon a writ at the suit of John 
Digges, with six other men, all armed with clubs, came to the house of 
Adam Farney, laid violent hands or him, carried him away a prisoner 
down to Baltimore. They struck Louisa, Torney's wife, and his 
daughter Eve, and gave his said daughter a deep wound in the head. 
Torney entered bail and was discharged. 

The inconveniences under which the more orderly labored, were 
more than ordinary, because the laws of neither province could be 

• Upon this the pretended officer and his companions fled from Mar- 
tin Kitzmiiler and Jacob. 

Those engaged with the sheriff were Dudley and Henry Diggs, sons 
of John Diggs, John Stackers, Patrick Koyle, John Seyfert, and An- 
thony Worley. 



540 HISTORY OF ADAMS COUNTY. 

extended to the places to which the mutual claims were not settled, 
either by survey or charter. The more unruly availed themselves of 
these harbors, and their conduct was ground for complaint, as is fully 
set forth in the following petition : 

A petition from the Justices, Grand Jury, Commissioners and Asses- 
sors of the County of York, was presented to the House Feb. 18 1757. 
and read, setting forth, that near two townships, and many other small 
tracts of the best land in said county, are held under the Proprietary of 
the Province of Maryland, and therefore the inhabitants of these land.s 
are not liable to pay taxes, or other public dues for the support of this 
government, neither do they (as they inform the petitioners) pay to the 
Province of Maryland, under whose jurisdiction they are, or ought to 
be, by the Royal order; that the situation of these lands being chiefly 
from five to fifteen or twenty miles and upwards north of the Temporary 
line, and conspquently separated from Maryland bylaws held under 
our Proprietaries, the petitioners apprehend to be the reason why the 
inhabitants of said lands are not called upon for public dues by the 
officers of Maryland ; that as many of the inhabitants of the said lands 
as have convenient situations, and are in suitable circumstances, do 
distil great quantities of spirits, and keep public houses, and neither 
have license from, nor pay excise to, either of the Provinces ; that 
some of them entertain the servants and hirelings of their neighbors 
on Sabbath days, and harbor and conceal many of such of the inhab- 
itants of this Province as get in debt or commit any crimes cognizable 
before the court in said county, to the manifest injury of the public, 
and of numbers of the inhabitants of this Province ; that nevertheless 
the persons residing on this land, sue for, and recover, their debts 
amongbt the petitioners, and enjoy all the other privileges of Govern- 
ment with those who contribute towards the support thereof; the peti- 
tioners, therefore pray, that this House will consider the premises, and 
grant such remedy as shall seem expedient. — Votes of Assembly, iv. 
694. Feb. 18, 1757. 



CHAPTER XLII. 

FIRST SETTLERS, &C. 

First settlers in various parts of the county — Disputes and affrays be- 
tween the Irish and Germans— At York 1750-1751 — SufTerings of 
early settlers — Indian incursions — Abduction of Richard Bard — Ed- 
ucation — Poor-house. 

The first settlers of this county were principally Scotch-Irish, who 
settled in the southwest part of the county, on and along Marsh creek; 
some English descendants who settled in the borders of Maryland, it 



HISTORY OF ADAMS COUNTY. 541 

and about Diggis' Choice, with some Germans, Low Dutch, and emi- 
grants from the lower counties. 

Among the first settlers on Marsh creek, about 1738-'40, were Wil- 
liam McLelan, Joseph Farns, Hugh McClain, Matthew Black, James 
McMichell, Robt. McFarson, William Black, James Agnew (the coop- 
er) Henry McDonath, John Alexander, Moses Jenkins, Richard Hall, 
Richard Fosset, Adam Hall, John Eddy, Edward Hall, James Wilson, 
John Eddy, jr. James Agnew, William Eddy, John Steen, John John- 
son, John Hamilton, Hugh Vogan, John McWharter, Hugh Swainey, 
Titus Darley, Thomas Hoswick and some of the Campbells, Allisons, 
Morrisons, &c. 

At that time, the limestone lands, in the lower part of the county, 
now so valuable in the hands of the German farmers, were not held in 
high estimation, on account of the scarcity of water, and the Scotch- 
Irish passed them by to select the slate lands, with the pure springs 
and mountain air to which they had been accustomed to at home. 
These settlers were of the better order of peasantry, and brought with 
them the characteristics of their native land. They were moral, in- 
dustrious, and intelligent ; and for the most part were rigid Presbyte- 
rians, or " Seceders." 1 hey were frugal, as the Scotch always are — 
plain in their mode of living, but cordial and hospitable. They were 
universally men of undaunted courage and high patriotic feeling ; and 
when the alarm of the revolution first rung through the land, it called 
no truer or more willing hearts than those of the Scotch-Irish Presby- 
terians. The manners and character of the early settlers have been 
very generally inherited by their descendants — many of whom still 
cultivate the same farms, worship in the same old churches, and hold 
fast to the rigid and venerated " form of sound words" of the Presby- 
rian church. 

The region around Gettysburg, including all of Cumberland and 
part of Strabane townships, was original'y known as " the Manor of 
Mask," established by warrant from the Penns in 1740, previous lo 
which time many settlements had been made. Some dispute arose con- 
cerning the title; but a compromise was elTected by the original set- 
tlers through the agency of Mr. McLellan in 1765, when the bounda- 
ries of the manor were marked, and a list of the names of the first set- 
tlers, with the date of their settlement, was returned to the land-oflice, 
to prove the incipiency of their title. 

The section of country around Fairfield or Millerstown,is known as 
the tracts, or Carroll tracts, upper and lower. These were large tracts, 
surveyed and held by the Carroll family, under Lord Baltimore's title, 
before the southern boundary line had been definitely settled, of which 
some account is given below.' Charles Carrol had been agent for Lord 
Baltimore. — Smithes Laws, ii. 136. 

The Germans settled between Hanover and Littlestown, in the lime- 
stone region. The names of some of the early settlers in this region 
are Martin Kidmiller, .\dam Farney, Peter Weltie, Peter Reischert, 
Andrew Foreman, Stephen Ulrich, Abraham Haul, Derrick J'ungblur, 
Frederick Schitz, Casper Bergheimer, Hans Martin Ungefehi-, George 
Kuntz, Hans Morgenstern, George Marschtaler, Ludwig Schreiber, An- 
dreas Herger, Dewalt Jung, Peter Ober, Andreas Schreiber, Herr Ju- 
engling, Peter Jungblut, Adam Sell, Peter Hertz, Herr Moeser, all of 

46 



542 HISTORY OF ADAMS COUNTY. 

whom took up lands, or settled under Maryland Rights. Shiely, Wor- 
ley and others, settled in Conewago township. 

Within the last 45 years, those from Ireland and Scotland, and their 
descendants, have been supplanted iby Germans. The German lan- 
guage is now commonly spoken in many parts of the county. 

At an early period, 1749, '50, '51, the Scotch-Irish and Germans had 
several affrays. In 1749 there were two prominent candidates, Hans 
Hamilton and Richard McAllister, for the sheriff's office, before the 
public. The election was held at York, in 1749, and for years after- 
wards, at the house ol Baltzer Spengler. It was an unfinished building 
of logs, through an opening of which, tickets were received. In the 
cool of the morning all was quiet. The Germans were in favor of 
McAllister ; the Irish for Hamilton ; the former were very active for 
their candidate, and evidently gaining on their competitors; which 
vexed the ireful friends of Hamilton. Several of the Irish took pos- 
session of the polls — determined that none but their friends should 
vote. The Germans, determined upon their rights, without yielding an 
inch ; when an aSVay ensued — promiscuous blows were severely dealt 
out — the Irish were routed. 

A similar affray occurred in October 1750, at the election for repre- 
sentatives to the Assembly, when a large party of Germans drove the 
Irish off— knocked down the sheriff. The whole affair was investiga- 
ted in the Assembly. Two versions are given of the proceedings. — 
The Germans did set forth by way of extenuation of their conduct, 
"that Hans Hamilton did not open the election till two o'clock in the 
afternoon, which caused no little i;neasiness among the people. That 
Hamilton's party — the Marsh ere'' people gathered about the election 
house to give in their tickets, and would not suffer the Dutch people 
and other friends to come near the house, but did what they could to 
keep them off with clubs, so that the Dutch were obliged to do the best 
they could, or else go home without vdting, and being i' en the most 
in number, they drove the people from the house, and when they had 
done so, they came in a peaceable manner to give in their votes ; but 
■when the stieriff saw his party was mastered, he locked up the box, 
and would not suffer the inspectors to take away more tickets, which 
made the Dutch people angry, and they strove to break into the house, 
and then the sober people desired the sheriff to continue the election ; 
but he would not, and went away out of the back window, several of 
the inspectors going with him — and then the freeholders desired the 
coroner to carry on the election — which having done carefully and 
justly: and, afterwards, the sheriff was asked to come and see the 
votes read, and an account takei. of them ; but he refused, &c. 

The whole matter was investigated — the sheriff was called before 
the Assembly, publicly admonished by the speaker, and advised to 
preserve better order in future." 

The Germans and Low Dutch were either Lutherans, German Re- 
formed, or C ithotics : the latter principally in Conewago township; 
and though few prior to 1760, are now very numerous, and constitute a 
highly respectable portion of the community of this county, and many 
of Ihera influential and intelligent. In 1767, there were under the care 
of the Revd. Mathias Manner, oflSciating priest, in York county (com- 
prising Adams) 116 Gcrm&n and 78 Irish Catholics. 
The prevailing religious denominations are Catholic, Lutheran, G«r- 



HITORY OP ADAMS COUNTY. 543 

man Reformed, Methodist, Presbyterian, Dunkard or German Baptists, 
Mennonites, United Brethren, Church of God, Quakers or Friends, 
Episcopalian, all of whom have their regular places of worship. 

During the French and Indian war, the Indians made occasionally 
hostile incursions inti» Adams, (then York) though greatly protected 
by the frontier settlements and the barrier of the South mounlain.which 
shielded them to some extent against the savages : nevertheless, the 
more adventurous of the savages penetrated into the very heart of the 
settlements, perpetrated murders and abducted some, as will appear 
from the subjoined deposition : 

York countv, ss. 

The affirmation of Richard Baird, of Hamilton's Ban twp., aged 
22 years, who saith that his habitation being at the foot of the South 
mountain, on the southeast side thereof, on the 13lh of April last, at 7 
o'clock in the morning, he, this deponent, was in his house, with Kath- 
arine his wife, John his child about 7 months old, Thomas Potter, son 
of the late Capt. John Potter, Esq., Frederick Ferrick his servant, 14 
years of age, Hannah McBride aged 11 years, William White 9 years 
old ; in his field were Samuel Hunter and Daniel McMenomy laborers, 
when a party consisting of 19 Indians came and captured Samuel Hun- 
ter and Daniel McMenomy in the field, and afterwards came to the 
dwelling house of this deponent, and 6 of them suddenly rushed into 
into the house, and were immediately driven out by this deponent and 
Thomas Potter ; the door of the house was thrown down by our press- 
ing to keep the Indians out and their pressing to come in: they shot in 
the house at us, and shot away Thomas Potter's little finger. We then 
had time to know their numbers, and in a little time surrendered, on 
the promise of the Indians not to kill any of us ; and took us about 60 
rods up the mountain, whe^e their match caa'5 lay; for they were na- 
ked except the britch clouts, leggings, moccnsins and caps ; there they 
brought the two men that had been at work in the field, and in about 
half an hour ordered us to march, setting me foremost of the prisoners. 
We marched one after another at some distance ; at about seven miles 
they killed my child, which I discovered by seeing its scalp ; about 12 
o'elock I saw another scalp, which I knew to be Thomas Potter's. I 
have since been informed they killed him at the place where their 
match coats lay. Friday the 14th, about 12 o'clock, they murdered 
Samuel Hunter, on the North mountain. They drove us over the Al- 
legheny mountains in a day and a half, and on Monday night about 10 
o'clock I escaped — they having sent me several times about three rods 
from the fire to bring them water. In 9 nights and days I got to Fort 
Lyttleton, having had no food other than 4 snakes which I had killed 
and eat, and some buds and roots and the like; 3 Cherokee Indians 
found me about two miles from Fort Lyttleton, cut me a staff and pi- 
loted me to tie Fort. 

In conversation with the Indians during my captivity, they informed 
me that they were all Delawares ; for they mostly all speak English. 
One spoke as good English as I can. The Captain said he had been 
at Philadelphia about a year ago. I asked them if they were not going 
to make peace with the English 1 The captain answered and said, they 



544 HISTORY OF ADAMS COUNTY. 

were talking about it when he was in Philadelphia last winter; bathe 
went away and left them. 

Richard Baibd. 
Affirmed and subscribed the 12th "^ 
of May, 1758 — Coramme Geo. C 
Stevenson. j 

Education. — The state of education is on the advance. In several of 
the towns there are schools of advanced standing, and the schools 
conducted by well qualified teachers. Every township in the county 
except Germany, Latimore, Reading, Tyrone and Union, has adopted 
the Common School System. Thiiteen districts have reported seven- 
ty-six schools; employing 73 male and 27 fefin ale teachers ; the former 
receiving an average salary of $17,94, and the latter $9,59 per month. 
In these schools 2,064 males and 1,594 females are taught. A district 
lax of $6,188.28 was raised. The State appropriation amounted to 
$3,844.00. Cost of instruction $5,517.34; fuel and contingencies 
$667.94. Besides the common schools, and subscriptions there are 
several academies in the county. 

Support of the Poor. — In this, as well as other counties, ample provi- 
sion is made for the more unfortunate of mankind — the paupers. — 
About a mile east of Gettysbur?; is a poor house, a hospital, with a 
tartn of 150 acres attached to it, well stocked and pretty well improved. 
There is also a school in the poor house for the children ; and preach- 
ing every Sabbath. The inmates, chiefly foreigners, number from 90 
ta 100. 



HISTORY OF PERRY COUNTY. 



CHAPTER XLIII. 



PERRY COUNTY. 



Perry county organized — Situation of first court, &c. — Geology — Pif. 
ferent kinds of soil, &c. — Synopsis of census of 1840— Description 
of streams — Warren springs — Public improvements ; canals, turn- 
piki>s, common roads and bridges.. 

This county was a part of Cumberland until 1820, when it was, by 
an act of the Legislature, passed March 23, organized into a separate 
county; it is bounded north by Juniata county, east by the Susquehan- 
na river, v/hich separates it from Pauphin county ; south by Cumber- 
land and west by Franklin county. Owing to its natural boundaries, 
mountains and streams, enclosing it in a form of a triangle, its length 
is .38 miles ; breadth 14; the area ^Z9 square miles. Population ia 
1820 11,342; in 1830 14,257; in 1840 17,096. Aggregate amount of 
property taxable in 1844 was ^^2,875,758 00. 

The first Court of Common Pleas in Perry county, was held in Lan- 
disburg, on the 4th of December, 1820. Hon. John Reed, President 
Judge ; William Anderson and Jeremiah Madden, Esqrs. Associates. 
Daniel Starabaugh, Esq. High Sheriff. 

The lollowing is a list of lawyers admitted shortly after the organi- 
zation of ihe county: ____^ 

George Metzger, John Creigh, William Ramsey, David Haling, Nich- 
olas B. Woods, Frederick M. Wadsworth, Samuel Alexander, James 
Hamilton, John D. Mahon, Isaac B. Parker, E. L. Benedict, Andrew 
Carothers, Willia .. N. Irvine, William H. Breckenridge, Alexander 
Mahon, William McClure, George A. Lyon, Alexander A. Anderson, 
John Williamson, Samuel Riddle, Charles B. Penrose, Chas. W. Davis. 

The following is a list of the first Grand Jury: 

William English, Juniata town.ship ; Andrev/ Lynn, Tyrone; Henry 
Beslin, Juniata ; Peter Mosses, Tyrone ; Jacob Weibley, Juniata; Con- 
rad Rice, Saville; William Brown, Juniata; Philip Fusselman, Tyrone; 
Christian Simons, Tyrone; Samuel Willis, Rye; Wm. Albigost, Green- 
wood ; William Porter, Buffaloe ; John Milligan, Saville; Daniel Mat- 
zer, Toboyne; Henry Hippie, Tyrone; Thomas Milligan, Saville; Moses 
Oatley, do.; Jacob Bird, do.; Nicholas Bird, Toboyne; Jacob Kogaii,do. 
Joshua Jones, Juniata; Thomas Kennedy, Tyrone ; John Eaton, do.; 
Jacob Kiser, Saville. 

List of Constables, same time : 

George Fetterman, Buffaloe township ; John O'Brian, Greenwood ; 

46* 



546 HISTORY OF PERRY COUNTY. 

Thomas Martin. Juniata ; Daniel McAIister, Rye ; Mathias Moyer, Sa- 
Tille ; John Cree, Tyrone ; Abraham Kisller, do.; James McKim, To- 
boyne. 

County Commissioners — 1st Board : 
Robert Mitchell, Thomas Adams, Jacob Huggins. 
Prolhonotary — Wm. B. Mitchell. 

This county lies entirely within the central transition formation of 
the State. Geologically or physically viewed, the county is bounded 
on the south by the Blue mountain or Kittatinny; the Tuscarora forms 
the northwestern boundary, the Susquehanna the eastern ; these three 
prominent and well defined boundaries, enclose the county in the form 
of a triangle. The surface of this county is truly diversified, viz: moun- 
tainous, hilly, broken, undulating and level; this variety also gives 
character to the soil ; the richest and the poorest is to be met with in 
this county. The soil, where it is not too much broken by stony ridges 
is generally productive ; that portion formed from the calcareous rock^, 
is very fertile, and produced, when well cnltivated, very abundantly, 
wheat, rye, oats, corn, &c. 

The geological character of the county has been investigated, and 
is thus described by Mr. Trego, Assistant State Geologist. 

" The geological character of this county will perhaps be best un- 
derstood by considering the several rock formations which it contains 
in a descending order, beginning with the highest. Two synclinal axes 
or lines of depression, pass across from the troughs of the coal basins 
on the east of the river, rising gradually to the southwest, and causing 
the rocks extending around their ends to dip and disappear, succes- 
sively in this direction. 

Thus we find the red shale which underlies the conglomerate floor 
of the coal fields, extending across the Susquehanna above the town 
of Dauphin or Greensburg, and occupying a little nook or cove on the 
west side of the river; and again above Millersburg the same forma- 
tion, the red shale of Lykens' valley, crossing into Perry county and 
occupying a triangular area enclosed by Buffalo mountain. 

The sandstone next in order below this red shale encloses it in Cove 
mountain, which is the union of Peters' and Sp.cond mountain; and in 
the north of Buffalo, which is an extension of Mahontongo mountain, 
joining with Berry's. Outside of these enclosing ridges, we have red 
shales and sandstones, extending for some distance on the river, and 
then uniting at the western points of the mountains, and stretching for 
some miles up Sherman's and Buffalo creeks. 

The next inferior series composed chiefly of olive colored slates, 
with strata of gray sandstone, beginning on the Susquehanna near the 
mouth of Fishing creek, ranges westward, widens east of Laudisburg, 
and thence sweeps round on the north of the red shale and sandstone 
of Sherman's creek, again reaching the Susquehanna above' Halifax. 
Here it unites with the corresponding formation of the northern basin, 
which extends westward on the north of Bloomsfield to a point on the 
head of Sherman's creek, northeast of Moreland church, whence its 
northern division passes north eastward, crosses the Juniata below 
Millersiown, and reaches the Susquehanna above Liverpool. The ex- 
terior limit of the area occupied by the last mentioned series, is gene- 
ally marked by a range of hills and ridges, containing the coar.^e fos- 
siliferous sandstone, with the accompanying limestone next below in 
geological position. 



HISTORY OF PERRY COUNTY. 547 

These extend on the north of the Blue Mountain as far as Wagner's 
gap, where they pass northward near LanJisburg, and then northeast- 
ward by Bloorafied across the Juniata on the east. Frona the neighbor- 
hood of Bloomfield, the northern division of these formations passes 
westward to near Germantown, and then, folding back to the north- 
east, across the Juniata near Millerstown, and extends by Pfoutz's val- 
ley to the Susquehanna. 

The red and variegated shales lying between the last mentioned lime- 
stone and the sandstone of the Kittaiinney and Tuscarora mountains, 
are seen in a narrow belt along the northern side of the former, until 
widening out in the neighborhood of Landisburg, it extends northeast- 
ward nearly to Bloomfield, and up Sherman's creek to the foot of Con- 
DCocheague ridge, and thence northeastward along the base of Tusca- 
rora mountain to Juniata, and so on towards the Susquehanna. Iron 
ore is found in many parts of the county, furnishing several furnaces. 
Perry county lies between two prominent ranges of mountains, and 
the face of the country between these mountains is broken by a num- 
ber of hills and ridges. The soil where it is not too much broken by 
stony ridges, is generally productive, especially the portions formed 
from the decomposition of calcareous rocks, is fertile, and when care- 
fully cultivated amply repays the husbandman by abundant crops. 
Ouly a small proportion however of the soil is limestone; slate and 
gravel predominate. The following table exhibits, at one view, the 
quantity of different kinds of soil. 

Limestone cleaned land 13,410 acres. 

Limestone uncleared 6,050 " 

Slate land cleared 46,660 " 

Slate land uncleared 58,120 " 

Grav«l land cleared 53,100 " 

Gravel land uncleared 21,610 " 

Sand land uncleared 5,040 " 

Mountain or Rock 68,240 " 

Known to contain iron ore 40 " 

The whole quantit> of cleared land of all kinds in acres, 139,000; 
the whole quantity of uncleared land, but fit for cultivation, 54,000; 
unfit for cultivation 74,100 acres. The average value per acre of 
cleared land was in 1838 estimated at $25 an acre; of woodland fit for 
cultivation $10; average value of woodland unfit for caltivation $5. 
The whole value of all the cleared land $1,527,000 ; of all the unclear- 
ed land $737,000; the whole number of farms 1,424; average size 140 
acres; average yield of wheal per acre fourteen bushels ; rye ten ; oats 
seventeen ; barley eighteen ; corn twelve. 

According to the census of 1840, therein this county, eight furnaces, 
which produced 2,951 tons of cast iron; 2 forges and rolling mills 
■which produced 1,300 tons of bar iron ; furnaces and forges consumed 
16,152 tons of fuel; employed 339 men including mining operations ; 
capital invested $303,150. 

Live Slock — Horses and mules 4,383 ; 15,043 neat cattle ; 16,932 sheep; 
21,485 swine; poultry of ail kinds, estimated at $6,403. 

Cereul grains —200,638 h\ishe\s of wheat; 411 bushels of barley; 192,- 
258 bushels of oats ; 143,519 bushels of rye ; 37,052 bushels of buck- 
wheat ; 150,095 bushels of Indian corn., 

Farious Crops— 28,929 pounds of wool ; 1,359 pounds of hops ; 968 



548 HisToar of perry oouwtt. 

pounds of flai ; 89,369 bushels of potatoes ; 13,007 tons of hay ; 5J ton* 
of hemp and flax. 

Four thousand, four hundred and eighty-two cords of wood sold 
the value of the products of the dairy, estimated at 814,329; ralne of 
the products of the orchard $9,374 ; value of home made or family 
goods $20,934. 

Twenty-three tanneries, tanned 9,720 sides of sole leather; 4,814 
sides of upper leather ; employed 58 men ; capital invested $56,S50 ; 
all other manufactories of leather, saddleries, &;c. 31 ; value of articles 
manufactured $14,715; capital invested $6,385 ; 13 distilleries, which 
produced 31,475 gallons ; capital invested $8,590 ; 4 potteries, value of 
manufactured articles $2100; capital invested $245. 

Retail dry goods, grocery and other stores 57; capital invested $169,- 
200; 5 lumber yards ; capilalinvested $1600 ; 57 men employed ; 60 
men engaged in internal transportation ; value of the produce of fish- 
eries $14,335; 22 barrels of tar manufactured $1893; 5 men employed. 
Value of bricks and lime manufactured $7269 ; 7 falling mills ; 5 wool- 
len manufactories; value of manufactured goods $4370; capital invested 
$8700: 2 printing offices — 2 weekly papers ; capital invested $2000. 
One rope walk; value of produce $3000; capital invested $2200; carri- 
ages and wagons; value of manufactures $2000; capital invested $695. 
24 flouring mills, which manufactured 1 1,200 barrels of tlonr ; 26 grist 
mills; 120 saw mills : value of manufactured furniture $3679; capital 
invested $1760; 8 brick and stone houses built ; 77 wooden ones; value 
of constructing or building $38,842 ; value of all other manufactures 
not enumerated $14,910 ; capital invested $5,905. Total capital invest- 
ed in all other manufactures $264,024. 



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Bushels of 

Buckwheat. 



Potatoes. 



Tons of hay. 



Pounds of wool 
raised. 



Value of the 
products of the 
dairy. 



CO 

O 

o 

ffi 

o 

Of 

a 

CO 

o 



OD 

o 

o 
o 

w 



HISTORY OF PERRY COUNTY. 551 

The streams of this county are numerous. 

Besides the Susquehanna already noticed, which forms the eastern 
boundary, and receive all the streams that water this county, there 
are many in it; the largest of which is the (Choniato) Juniata, a main 
tributary of the Susquehanna river, which rises by two distinct branch- 
es, called the Frankstown and Qaystown branches; after running a 
circuitous and sinuous course rising one hundred miles, enters this 
county, a few miles above Millerstown, pursuing a southeastern course 
of twelve miles, and empties into the Susquehanna at Duncan's Island, 
and in its course through the county, receives Wild Cat creek and 
several smaller streams on the north ; Racoon creek, Buffalo creek, 
Little Buffalo and a few smaller streams on the south. 

Burger's run rises in Wild Cat valley, after running a northeastern 
course for about 5 miles falls into the Susquehanna river at Liverpool. 
Hunter's run rises south of Buffalo mountain and falls into the Sus- 
quehanna at Mount Patrick. Cackalamus creek rises at the foot of 
the Shade mountain, in Juniata county, running a south east course of 
twelve miles, falls into the Juniata river at Millerstown. 

Wild Cat run rises in Racoon valley, a few miles north east of 
Ickesburg, meandering its course for eight miles through the valley of 
its own name, falls into the Juniata, opposite Millerstown. Buffalo 
creek rises in Liberty valley, at the base of Ttiscarora mountain, 
winding its way eastward between Racoon Ridge and Middle Ridge, 
for about eighteen miles, it falls into the Juniata. 

Little Buffalo creek rises near Middle Ridge, passes down between 
this ridge and Limestone Ridge, and empties into the Juniata at New 
Port. Little Juniata rises in Mahony Ridge, runs a southeastern course 
for 7 or 8 miles, and empties into the Susquehanna at Petersbnrg. 

Sher Jian's creek has its fountain head in Franklin county, near the 
Round Top — flows an eastern course this county, more than 40 miles, 
receiving numerous tributaries, and empties into the Susquehanna im- 
mediately below the mouth of the Little Juniata. Patterson's run, 
Brown's run, Huston's run, and Limestone spring, in the western part 
of the county, constitute the heads of Sherman's creek, Montour's run 
& other tributaries. Cove run rises at the Cove mountain and falls into 
the Susquehanna. Fishing creek rises southwest of the Cove moun- 
tain ; flows an eastern course for 8 or 9 miles, and empties into the 
Susquehanna, at the north base of the Blue mountain. 

The several streams afford ample water power to 50 or 60 flouring 
and gristmills, to 125 saw mills, and a number of factories, forges, 
furnaces, &c. 

The Warm Spring — The waters of which have some celebrity as to 
their medicinal properties and healing virtues. In cures o/ scrofulous 
affections and cutaneous diseases they have proved beneficial. 

A visitor, in 1831, thus describes the place — These springs are on the 
farm of Mr. Kennedy,whose house at some distance from, until lately, 
offered the only accommodation to visiters; and the approach to either 
was difficult and rugged enough. Mr. Hippie, however, has erected & 
spacious, and in every way comfortable boarding house at the springi, 
and furnished as good cheer at the table and the bar as is to be found 
at any other watering establishment thai has come under our inspec- 
tion. 
The chief advantage of those springs to those who are sick, but re- 



5^ HISTORY OF PERRY COUNTY. 

tire from town in order to enjoy the country, are the luxury of the bath 
and the scenery of country that surrounds you. Mount Pisgah nods 
in front, and the mountain from whence the spring issues, is in the 
rear while the waters of Sherman's creek flow between. The springs 
rise at the foot of Quaker Hill, and emit about 90 gallons a minute. 
The temperature of the water is nearly that of river or creek water — 
in the summer. 

The Springs are in a romantic jnd healthy situation about eleven 
miles north of Carlisle, twenty-two from Harrisburg, eightTrom Ster- 
relt's Gap, and four from Wagner's Gap, and four from Landisburg. 

The accommodations at present are good — charges moderate. 

Two lines of public improvements pass through this county. The 
Pennsylvania canal crosses the Susquehanna in a pool or dam, at 
Duncan's Island and divides one branch the Susquehanna division 
passes along the eastern boundary of the country, ascending the right 
bank of the Susquehanna. 

The Juniata division extends up the right bank of the Juniata river 
for a distance of fifteen miles, where it crosses the river by a rope 
ferry and passes up the right bank. 

Since the opening of the canal. Perry county has been greatly im- 
proved. Where there was a dense forest twenty years ago, are now 
well cultivated and productive farms. 

The Harrisburg and Huntingdon turnpike road runs along the left 
bank of the Juniata. The county is intersected by many roads, many 
of which are kept in good repair. Several fine bridges cross the lar- 
ger streams. New roads are opening, and new bridges building. Ere 
many years, Perry may vie with her mother, old Cumberland. 



CHAPTER XLIV. 



TOWNS. 

Bloomfield — Millerslown — Milford or Jonestown— New Port — Peters- 
burg — New Buffaloe — Liverpool — New Gefmantowri, Ickesburg — 
Landisburg — Loysville or Andersonsvilie. 

BtooMFiBtD, the seat of Justice, was located on a tract of land he- 
longing to Mr. George Barnett, (a wealthy and highly respectable citi- 
zen, still residing in the borough) and was so called from the name as 
given to the tract in the patent. The name of the post office is New 
Bloomfield. The town has since been extended westward upon lands 
once the property of Jacob Lupfer and Michael Shuman. The town 
IE pleasantly situated in a narrow valley near the centre of the coun- 
ty; 5 miles from the Juniata river, II from the Susquehanna, 18 from 
Carlisle and 26 from Harrisburg. It contains about 120 houses, mostly 



HISTORV OF PERRY COUNTY. 553 

frame, and has a population of over 600 souis. The public buildings 
are a court house, jail, academy, school house*, 3 churches — German 
Reformed & Lutheran, 1 Presbyterian, and 1 Methodist. There are 5 
stores and 5 taverns — 2 clergymen, 2 physicians, and 9 lawyers; 3 
printing offices belonging to as many weekly political newspapers; the 
country immediately around the town is hilly, and not very fertile; and 
from its isolated position, but little business is done in the place, except 
such as is peculiar to a seat of justice. The inhabitants are intelli- 
gent and sociable. 

MiLLERSTowjf, a post town in Greenwood township, on the left bank 
of the Juniata river, opposite the mouth of Raccoon creek, 10 miles 
northeast from Bloomfield, and 29 miles west of Harrisburg, contains 
between 80 and 90 dwellings, a Presbyterian church, 5 stores, 3 tav- 
erns, a school house, a number of mechanics' shops. Population in 
1840, 371. 

The town was laid out about 45 years ago. The Juniata is crossed 
here by a wooden bridge — the western turnpike passes through it. 
When the canal was excavated here, the workmen found a number of 
human bones, supposed to have been the remains of Indians. 

MiLFORD or Jonestown, in Juniata township, is on Big Buffalo crk., 
5 miles north of Bloomfield. The town was laid out about 1814 or '16, 
and numbers 8 or 10 dwellings. Population 64. 

New Pout, known for many years as Reiderville, is a post village 
in Oliver township, was laid out hy one Reider about 1814. Its growth 
was very tardy till the canal was made, 15 years ago, since which it 
has steadily improved. When the county had been divided from Cum- 
berland, it was fixed on as the county town, when it received its pres- 
ent name — New Port. The town consists of 100 dwellings, 3 taveras, 
4 stores, a school-hdusc and a Methodist church. 

New Port bids fair of bearing a place of some importance, being di- 
rectly on the bank of the canal, and being accessible by good roads, 
which pass through the best portions of the county. Near it are a grist 
and saw mill. 

Petersburg, a post town and borough in Penn township, on the 
west bank of the Susquehanna river, 12 miles northwest of Harris- 
burg, is a flourishing and pretty town. It is 8 miles southeast of Bloom- 
field. Population 420. It contains 3 churches, viz: Presbyterian, 
Methodist, and Lutheran, 2 stores, 1 tavern, and a temperance house. 
Immediately below town is the Little Juniata, on which is Mr. Jones' 
merchant mill. About a mile and a half below, Sherman's creek emp- 
ties into the Susquehanna.where is situated Ddncanxox, a flourishing 
manufacturing village. Messrs. Fisher & Morgan, own here one of 
the most extensive iron establishments in the interior of the State. — 
The works consist of a rolling mill and nail factory. From 80 to 90 
tons of iron ore manufactured weekly. The Nailery contains 25 or 
more machines, capable of making 800 kegs of nails per week. 

This place (Duncannon) contains a population of 290. 

New Buffalo, a post village in Buffalo township, is on the west 

• The school in 1844 engaged 2 male teachers at $20 per month. 
There were 88 male and 62 female teachers attending ; a district tax 
of $2,65 97 was raised; the State appropriation was $95; cost of tui- 
tion $280 ; school open 7 months. Fuel and contingencies $35. ■: 

47 



554 



HISTORY OF PERRY COUNTY. 



bank of the Susquehanna river, 12 miles northeast of Bloomfield, and 
20 miles above Harrisburg. The town contains between 30 and 40 
dwellings ; a Methodist, and Presbyterian church, 3 stores, 2 taverns. 
Population 200. The town was laid out in 1800, by Jacob Baughman. 

The township, says Mr. Steever, is divided by the Half-full moun- 
tain, which is noted on account of the singular discoveries that have 
been made, on and about it, as well as the wealth it is supposed to 
possess. The present inhabitants can recollect distinctly, that when 
their fathers used to have shooting matches, in which the Indians gen- 
erally participated, in case the lead would get scarce, the Indians 
would pick up their tomahawk, run to the mountain, and in a few mo- 
ments return with a supply of lead, in a crude state, they always in- 
sisted that there was more wealth in that mountain than any other in 
the State. 

LivEKPooL, a post town and borough in Liverpool township, is an 
important town on the Susquehanna, 16 miles northeast of Bloomfield, 
30 above Harrisburg. It contains 140 dwellings ; four taverns, five 
stores, two churches ; German Reformed, and United Brethren, and 2 
schools. Population 650. The Susquehanna division of the Pennsyl- 
vania Canal passes through, or along the town. Liverpool was incor- 
porated 8 or 9 years ago. Considerable trade is carried on here. The 
Wild Cat creek is immediately below the town. There are several 
mills within three-fourths of a mile from the borough. 

New Germantown, a post town in Toboyne township, 20 miles west 
of Bloomfield, contains between 20 and 30 dwellings, several stores, 
and a tavern. There are 2 German churches in the vicinity of th's 
place. The soil in this region is limestone and gravel, and well im- 
proved. 

IcKESBURG, a post viUagc in Saville township, 9 miles northwest of 
Bloonafield, contains about 20 dwellings, 2 stores. There is a Pres- 
byterian church near it. Population between 60 and 70. 

LANoisBuas, a post town and borough in Tyrone township, contains 
about 60 dwellings, 2 taverns, 3 stores, 3 churches, viz: Presbyterian, 
Methodist, and Church of God. Population about 400. The first court 
was held here. 

LoTsviLLK or Andersonville, laid out in 1840 by Michael Loy, is a 
brisk hamlet — one tavern, three stores, a Union church. Population 
between 50 and 60. It is in Toboyne township, 9 miles from Bloom- 
field, 



CHAPTER XLV. 

FIRST SETTLERS, &C. 

First settlers and their settlements— Removed by Secretary Peters' 
«Scc.— Measures to prevent other intruders— Andrew Montour li- 
censed for that purpose— He settles on Sherman's creek— His let- 
ter— Weiser visits him— Settlers in Sherman's valley surprised by 
the Indians— Robinson's narrative, «&c.— Present population, &c.— 
Common Schools — Poor-house. 

The first settlers of this county were principally Scotch-Irish, with 
some Germans, English, and their descendants. At a very early day, 
prior to 1733, John Harris, of Paxton, had cleared some lands and 
erected a house, near Juniata, of which the Indians complained to 
the provincial council. Not many years after— about 1740 or '41— 
one Frederick Star, a German, with several of his countrymen, made 
some small settlements on the Big Juniata, 25 miles from the mouth 
thereof, and about 10 miles north from the Blue hills. In 1742 the 
Indians urged their removal. The example of Star and his neighbors 
was soon followed by others ; but the Indians persisted on their im- 
mediate removal. For that purpose, the government in 1748, sent the 
sheriff of Lancaster county, and three magistrates, with Conrad Wei- 
ser, to these places, to warn the people to leave immediately; but 
the settlers, in opposition to all this, continued their settlements, 
till 1750, when more decisive measures were adopted. On the 22d 
of May, 1750, Richard Peters, Maihew Dill, George Croghan, Benja- 
min Chambers, Conrad Weiser, Thomas Wilson, John Finley & Jas. 
Galbrelh, Esqrs., having been appointed for that purpose by the Gov- 
ernor, alter holding a council, a few days before, at the house of Geo. 
Croghan, Pennsboro' township, Cumberland county, accompanied by 
the under sheriff of Cumberland county, went to the place where Ly- 
can, Gaboon, Gallaway and Hiddleson had settled, and where they 
found 5 cabins or log houses, look some of the settlers into custody, 
and set fire to their cabins. Thence they proceeded to Sherman s 
creek, where they found James Parker, Thomas Parker, Owen Mc- 
Keeb, John McClare, Richard Kirkpatrick, James Murray, John Scott, 
Henry Gass, Simon Girty and John Kilbaugh, who had settled lands 
and erected cabins thereon— whose cabins or houses were also set on 
fire. They took the men into custody, bound them in recognizaBce of 
one hundred pounds each, to appear and answer for their trespass, on 
the first day of the next county court to be held at Shippensbnrg. 

Fearful that attempts would again be made to proceed with settle- 
menis by the whites, before these lands were purchased from the In- 
dians, Andrew Montour, by a commission, dated April 18, 1752, was 



556 HISTORY OF PERRY COUNTY. 

licensed to settle and reside in any place he should judge convenient 
and central, and to preserve the lands from being settled by others, 
and warn all off who had presumed to go on them, and to report the 
names of all such as settled there that they might be prosecuted. 

Montour took up his residence on Sherman's creek. While he 
was residing here, he addressed a number of letters to the Governor 
and Council. The following I copied from Montour's autograph letter 
preserved in the Secretary's office at Harrisburg. 

Sherman's creek, 16th May, 1754. 

Sir — I once more take upon me the liberty of informing you that our 
Indians at Ohio are expecting every day the armed forced of this pro- 
vince against the French, who, by their late encroachments, is likely 
to prevent their planting, and thereby render them impossible of sup- 
porting their families. And you may depend upon it, as a certainty, 
that our Indians will not strike the French, unless this province (or 
New York) engage with them ; and that, by sending some number of 
men to their immediate assistance. The reasons are plain; to wit ; 
that they don't look upon their late friendship with Virginia, sufficient 
to engage them in a war with the French ; I therefore think, with sub- 
mission, that to preserve our Indian allies, this province ought in- 
stantly to send out some men, either less or more, which I have good 
reason to hope, would have the desired effect; otherwise, I doubt there 
will, in a little time, be an entire separation ; the consequences of 
which, you are best able to judge, &c. I am informed, by my brother, 
who has lately come from the Lakes, that there is at that place a great 
number of French Indians, preparing to come down to the assistance 
of the French, at Ohio. I am likewise informed, by a young Indian 
man, (who, by my brother's directions, spent some days with the 
French at Monongahela) that they expect a great number of French 
down the river, very soon. I have delayed my journey to Ohio, and 
waited with great impatience for advice from Philadelphia, but have 
not yet received any. I am now obliged to go to Col. Washington, 
who has sent for me many days ago, to go with him to meet the half- 
king, Monacatootha, and others, that are coming to meet the Virginia 
companies; and, as they think, some from Pennsylvania— and would 
have been glad to have known the design of this province, in these 
matters, before I had gone. 

I am, sir, your very humble servant, 

Andrew Montube. 

To Gov. H. R. Morris. 

It has already been shown in a preceding part of this work, where 
many incidents are given in detail, and to which the reader is referred, 
that the early settlers of this county, with all the frontier settlers,were 
frequently surprised by the Indians, some of them murdered and scalp- 
ed, others carried into captivity. 

The following extract, from a narrative of Robert Robison, one of 
the early pioneers of Sherman's valley, is presented in this connection 
(though given in substance) to show what the state of things was at 
thai time in this county. 

Conrad Weiser called at the house of Andrew Montour, in August, 
1754, on his way to Aughwick, to hold a treaty with the Indians. 



HISTORY OF FERRY COUNTY. 557 

In his Jonrnal, he says — "Sept. 1st, crossed the Kittatinor mona- 
tain, at George Croghan's (Sterrett's) Gap, and Sherman's creek, and 
arrived that day at Andrew Montour's accompanied (from Harris's fer- 
ry) by himself, the half-king, and another Indian, and my eon. I found 
at Andrew Montour's, about 15 Indians, men, women and children ; 
and more had been there, but were gone. 

Andrew's wife had killed a sheep for them some days ago; she com- 
plained that the Indians had done great damage to the Indian corn, 
which was now fit to roast ; and I found that there were, most every 
day, Indians, of those that came from Ohio, with some errand or other, 
which always wanted victuals in the bargain. I gave him ten pounds 
of the government money." 

The next day Weiser, accompanied by Andrew, and those who 
were with him before, went toward .\ughwick. — [Prov. Rec. 

The next I remember of was in the year 1756, the Woolcomber fam- 
ily, on Sherman's creek: the whole of the inhabitants of the valley 
were gathered to a fort at George Robison's ; but Woolcomber would 
not leave home ; he said it was the Irish who were killing one another; 
these peaceable people, the Indians, would not hurt any person. Be- 
ing at home, and at dinner, the Indians came in, and the Quaker asked 
them to come aud eat dinner; an Indian answered that he did not 
come to eat, but for scalps ; the son, a boy 14 or 15 years of age, when 
he heard the Indian say so, repaired to a back door, and as he went 
out he looked back and saw the Indian strike the tomahaw-k into his 
father's head. The boy then ran over the creek, which was near to 
the house, and heard the screams of his mother, sisters and brothers. 
The boy came to our fort and gave us the alarm ; about forty went to 
where the murder was done, and buried the dead. 

In the second war, on the 5th July, 1763, the Indians came to Juni- 
ata, it being harvest time, and the white people were come back to 
reap their crops: they came first to the house of Wm. White, it was 
on the Sabbath day ; the reapers were all in the house ; the Indians 
crept up nigh to the door and shot the people lying on the floor, and 
killed Wm. White, and all his family that were there, excepting one 
bo}', who, when he heard the guns, leaped out of the window and 
made his escape. 

The same party went to Robert Campbell's on Tuscarora creek, sor- 
prised them in the same way, shot them on the floor where they were 
resting themselves ; one George Dodds being there harvesting, had 
just risen and gone into the room and lay down on the bed, sitting his 
gun beside him ; when the Indians fired, one of them sprung into the 
house with his tomahawk in his hand, running up to where a man 
was standing in the corner ; Dodds fired at the Indian not six feet from 
him ; the Indian gave a halloo and ran out as fast as he could. There 
being an opening in the loft above the bed, Dodds sprung up there and 
went out by the chimney, making his escape, and came to Sherman"? 
valley. He came to Wm. Dickson's and told what had happened, 
there being a young man there which brought the news to us, who 
were harvesting at Edward Elliott's; other intelligence we got in the 
night. John Graham, John Christy, and James Christy, were alarmed 
in the evening by guns firing at Wm. Anderson's, where the old mat 
was killed with his Bible in his hand; supposed he was about wor- 
ship ; his son also was killed, and a girl that bad been brought up 

47* 



553 HISTORY OF PERRY COUNTY. 

from a child by the old people. Graham and the Christys came about 
midnight. We heariug the Indians had got so far up the Tuscarora 
▼alley, and knowing Collins' family and James Scott's were there 
about harvest, 12 of us concluded to go over Bigham's gap and give 
those word that were there ; when we came to Collins' we saw that 
the Indians had been there, had broke a wheel, emptied a bed, and ta- 
ken flour, of which they made some water-gruel ; wc counted thirteen 
spoons made of bark; we followed the tracks down to James Scott's, 
where wp found the Indians had killed some fowls ; we pursued on to 
Graham's, there the house was on fire, and burned down lo the joists. 
We divided our men into two parties, six in each, my brother with his 
party came in behind the barn, and myself with the other party came 
down through an oats field ; I was lo shoot first; the Indians had 
hung a coat upon a post on the other side of the fire from us ; I look- 
ed at it, and saw it immoveable, and therefore walked down lo it and 
found that the Indians had just left it ; they had killed four hogs, and 
had eaten at pleasure. Our company took their track, and found ihat 
two companies had met at Graham's, and had gone over the Tusca- 
rora mountain. We took the run gap ; the two roads meeting at 
Nicholson's, they were there first, heard us coming, and lay in am- 
bush for us ; they had the first fire ; being 25 in number, and only 12 
of us — they killed five, and wounded myself. They then went to Al- 
exander Logan's, where they emptied some beds, and passed on to 
George M'Cord's. 

The names of the 12 were Wm. Robison, who acted as captain, 
Robert Robison, the relater of this narrative, Thomas Robison, being 
three brothers, John Graham, Charles Elliott, William Chrisiy, James 
Christy, David Miller, John Elliott, Edward McConnel, William Mc- 
Alister, and John Nicholson ; the persons killed were William Robi- 
son, who was shot in the belly with buckshot, and got about half a 
mile from the ground; John Elliott, then a boy about 17 years of age, 
having emptied his gun, he was pursued by an Indian with his toma- 
hawk, who was within a few perches of him, when Elliott had puor- 
ed some powder into his gun by random, out of his powder horn, and 
having a bullet in his mouth, put it in the muzzle, but had no time to 
ram it down ; he turned and fired at his pursuer, who clapped his 
hand on his stomach and cried, och ! then turned and fled. Elliott 
had lan but a few perches further, when he overtook William Robi- 
son, weltering in his blood, in his last agonies ; he requested Elliott 
to carry him ofl^, who excused himself by telling him of his inability 
to do so, and also of the danger they were in ; he said he knew it, but 
desired him to take his gun with him, and, peace or war, if ever he 
had an'opportunity of killing an Indian, lo shoot him for his sake. — 
Elliott brought away the gun, and Robison was not found by the In- 
dians. 

Thomas Robison stood on the ground until the whole of his people 
were fled, nor did the Indians ofler to pursue, until the last man left 
the field ; Thomas having fired and charged a second time, the Indians 
were prepared for him, and when he took aim past the tree, a number 
fired at him at the same time ; one of his arms was broken ; he took 
his gun in the other and fled ; going up a hill he came to a high log, 
and clapped his hand, in which was his gun, on the log to assist in 
leaping over it ; while in the attitude of stooping, a bullet entered his 



HISTORY OF PERRY COUNTY. 559 

side, going in a triangular course ihrongh his body ; he sunk down 
across the log; the Indians sunk the cock of his gun into his brains, 
and mangled him very much. John Graham was seen by David Mil- 
ler sitting on a log, not far from the place of attack, with his hands on 
his face, and the blood running through his fingers. Charles Elliott 
and Edward McConnel took a circle round where the Indians were 
laying, and made the best of their way to Buffalo creek, but they were 
pursued by the Indians ; and where they crossed the creek there was 
a high bauk, and as they were endeavoring to ascend the bank they 
were both shot, and fell back into the water. 

A party of 40 men came from Carlisle, in order to bury the dead at 
.Inniata ; when they saw the dead at Buffalo creek they returned 
home. Then a party of men came with Capt. Dunning; but before 
they came to Alexander Logan's, his son John, Charles Coyle, Wm. 
Hamilton, with Bartholomew Davis, followed the Indians to George 
M'Cord's, where they were in the barn ; Logan and those with him 
were all killed, except Davis who made his escape. The Indians then 
returned to Logan's house again, when Capt. Dunning and his party 
came on them, and they fired some time at each other ; Dunning had 
one man wounded. 

I forgot to give you an account of a murder done at our own fort in 
Sherman's valley, in July, 1756 ; the Indians waylaid the fort in har- 
vest-time, and kept quiet until the reapers were gone; James Wilson 
remaining some time behind the rest, and I not being gone to my busi- 
ness, which was hunting deer for the use of the company, Wilson 
standing at the fort gate, I desired liberty to shoot his gun at a mark, 
upon which he gave me the gun, and I shot; the Indians on the upper 
side of the fort, thinking they were discovered, rushed on a daughter 
of Robert Miller, and instantly killed her, and shot at John Simmeson; 
they they made the best of it that they could, and killed the wife of 
James Wilson, and the widow Gibson, and took Hugh Gibson and 
Betsy Henry prisoners. While the Indian was scalping Mrs. Wilson, 
the narrater shot at and wounded him, but he made his escape. The 
reapers, being 40 in number, returned to the fort, and the Indians 
made off. 

I shall relate an affair told me by James McClung, a man whom I 
can confide in for truth, it being in hi:; neighborhood. An Indian came 
to a tavern, called for a gill of whiskey, drank some out of it ; when 
there came another Indian in, he called for a gill also, and set it on 
the table, without drinking any of if, and took out the first Indian, dis- 
coursing with him for some time; the first Indian then stripped him- 
self naked, an-d lay down on the floor, and stretched himself; the other 
stood at the door, and when he was ready, he stepped forward with 
his knife in his hand, and stabbed the Indian who was lying down lo 
thiP heart ; he received the stab, jumped to his feet, drank both the 
gills of whiskey off, and dropped down dead ; the white people made 
a prisoner of the other Indian, and sent to the heads of the nation; 
two of them came and examined the Indian, who was a prisoner, and 
told them to let him go, he had done righl. — Loudon's Narrative, ii. 

The present inhabitants are chiefly of Irish, Scotch and German or- 
igin; the latter are numerous in some parts of the county, and gener- 
ally speak their own language; but nearly all understand English. 

The prevalent religious denominations are Pres'byterians, Lather- 



560 HISTORY OF PERRY COUNTY. 

ans, German Reformed, Methodist, United Brethren, and Church of 
God. These, collectively, have between 30 and 40 places of public 
worship. 

Common education had been much neglected; however, it has late- 
ly received more atleniion, and the public school system has met with 
a favorable reception, having been adopted in every district except in 
Madison township. Several schools of advanced standing are found 
in this county. 

In 1844, 14 districts had adopted the system, in which 67 schools 
were open for the reception and instruction of scholars ; 67 male and 
6 female teachers were employed ; the former at an average salary per 
month of ^17,40, and the latter at $7,16 per month; 1,896 male and 
1.5.5.5 females were taught 2 months in the year; a district tax of 
$4,133 22 was raised; and the state appropriation was $3,226 00. 

Provision is made for the unfortunate poor. Near Landisburg are 
fine buildings, on a well improved aad productive farm, for their 
maintanance and comfort; where from 40 to 50 are supported. 



HISTORY OF SOMERSET COUNTY. 



CHAPTER XLVI. 

SOMERSET COUNTY. 

Somerset county erected — Limits and population — Geological aspect 
— Streams — General statistics — Synopsis of the census of 1840 — 
Public improvements — Somerset, the county town — Berlin — Stoys- 
town — Extract from Post's journal — Petersburg — Smythfield — Salis- 
bury— Mil ford— Jennersville — Lexington — Shenksville — Early set- 
tlements — Washington opens a road — Bouquet's road — Forbes' ar- 
my passes through the county — Several engagements — Religious 
denominations — Education. 

Somerset County was established by an act passed 
April 17th, 1795. The boundaries were then defined : — 
" That all that part of Bedford county, lying and being 
westward of a line to be drawn along the top of the Al- 
legheny mountain, from where the Maryland hne cross- 
es the same, to where the line of Huntingdon county 
crosses the same mountain." The Circuits of this coun- 
ty were afterward changed, and its extent considerably 
reduced. In 1800, part of Bedford county was annexed, 
to Somerset; and in 1804 part of Somerset was taken 
with part of Huntitigdon to form Cambria county. 

At present this county is bounded on the north by Cam- 
bria county ; east by Bedford ; south by the state of Ma- 
ryland; west by Fayette, and north-west by Westmore- 
land. Great length, 38 miles ; mean width, 28 ; area, 
1066 square miles; and contains 682,240 acres of land. 
Population in 1800,10,188; in 1810, 11,284; in 1820, 
13,890; in 1830, 17,741; in 1840, 19,650. These were 
variously employed ; in mining, 5; in agriculture, 3,556; 
in commerce, l02; in manufacture and trade, 914; in 
navigation of the ocean, 57; in the learned professions 
and engineers, 34. 

47 



562 HiSTORr OF somerset couNxr. 

The physical aspect of the county is diversified. The 
greater proportion of this county lies west of the main 
ridge of the Allegheny, and the whole is embraced by 
that ridge and the Little Allegheny mountain on the 
east, and the Laurel hill on the west; afld is therefore 
witliin the great secondary formation of the state. Salt, 
coal and iron, are found in varions parts of the county. 
The first is most abundant in the eastern and northern 
sections; the others may be obtained in every township. 
Besides the mountains we have named, there is a consider- 
able elevation running in from Maryland, through nearly 
half the county, which is called Negro mountain, and 
forms a dividing ridge for the waters. Yet, the county 
cannot be termed very hilly; part is rolling, and part lev- 
el; the soil generally of loam, is well adapted to grain, 
and the clayey portions peculiarly fitted for meadow 
grasses. 

Few counties in the state are better watered. In Somer- 
set and Stoney Creek townships, the streams are divided, 
and form the elevated land which separates them; they 
flow north and south. Towards the north runs Stoney 
creek, a chief constituent of the Conemaugh river, which 
unites at Johnstown with the little Conemaugh. Stoney 
creek receives from the county on the left, the Quemaho- 
ning creek, which has two considerable forks, and several 
smaller tributaries; and from the right. Shade creek, which 
has also numerous ramifications. In the south-eastern 
part of the county, Castleman's river rises in Greenville 
township, near the state line, and flowing north-west 
through a gap of the main Allegheny, receives in Mifilin 
township Cox's creek, which runs southward by the town 
of Somerset to meet it ; thence deflecting south-west, the 
fiver flows to the western boundary, and unites with the 
Youghiogheny. Laurel creek rises in Somerset township, 
and running southward parallel with the Laurel moun- 
tain, also pours its waters into the Youghiogheny river, 
within a mile below the mouth of Castleman's river. 

Bituminous coal is found in abundance in many parts 
of this county. In the rough and irregular valley between 
the Little Allegheny and Savage mountain, is a coal bed 
several feet thick, which is worked in several places, 
and yield coal of a superior quality. It is found in sev- 
eral other places. 



HISTORY OF SOMERSET COUNTY. 563 

Iron ore is also found in various parts of the county. 
Not far from the mouth of Will's creek, and in the same 
neighborhood of Stoney creek, are localities— it is also 
found on Shade creek, where a furnace has been erected 
for the purpose of working it. 

There were in this county in 1840, one furnance, and one 
forge, which produced 20 tons of bar iron: 65,000 bushels 
of bituminous coal were raised. There were 8,400 horses 
and mules; 31,000 neat cattle, 36,900 sheep, 25,720 
swine ; value of poultry of all kinds $8,670 ; bushels of 
wheat raised, 118,100; barley, 7.30; oats, 621,200; rye, 
169,550; buckwheat, 46,650; pounds of wool, 70,100; 
hops, 4,830; wax, 760; bushels of potatoes, 134,800; 
tons of hay, 26,820; pounds of sugar, 299,800; value 
of fthe products of the dairy, $56,550; of the orchard, 
$5,430; of home made goods, $71,070. Stores 46, cap- 
ital $168,500. Fulling mills, 13; woolen factories, 2; 
value of manufactured goods, $15,900; capital, $12,450; 
value of hats and caps manufactured $6,400. Tanneries, 
29, tanned 3,710 sides of sole leather and 7,940 of up- 
per ; capital, 39,000. Distilleries 47, produced 28,800 
gallons; one brewery produced 1,000 gallons of beer; . 
grist mills, 64; saw mills, 141; oil mills, 4. Total capi- 
tal invested in manufacture, $116,310. The aggregate 
amount of property taxable in 1844 was $2,370,078,00; 
whereof $2,312,200 00 was real estate. 

The soil of the county is generally better adapted to 
agriculture than it would appear. The southern part is 
adapted to raising corn and wheat, the middle and more 
northern portion produce oats, potatoes and grass. It is 
a great growing county. The finest butter in the world 
is made in this county. The products of the dairy are 
very valuable. 

The public improvements are several turnpike roads: 
three of the principal ones pass from east to west through 
the county. In tlie northern part is the main turnpike 
from Philadelphia by Harrisbu'rg, Carli^le, Chambersburg, 
Bedford,. Stoystown and Greensburg, to Pittsburg. The 
turnpike from I'edford to Mount Pleasant on to Wash- 
ington, passes through the middle of the county. The 
National turnpike road crosses the south-west corner. — 
There is also a turnpike road leading from the town of 




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HrSTORY OF SOMERSET COUNTT. 565 

Somerset, by Berlin, to Cumberland in Maryland, from 
which point a railroad extends to Baltimore. The com- 
mon roads are generally in a passable condition. The 
longer streams have bridges across them. 

Somerset, formerly called Brunnerstown, laid out 
by Mr. Brunner in the year 1795, is a handsomely built 
town, situated on the summit of a hill near the centre of 
the county, on the turnpike road from Bedford to Mount 
Pleasant and Washington. It is 37 miles west of Bed- 
ford. It was incorporated by an act of Assembly, April 
7th, 1807, It has about 800 inhabitants, — contains a 
court house, county offices, a jail, an academy, and several 
churches. This place was visited with a very destructive 
fire in October, 1833. Twenty dwelling houses, fifteen 
shops and offices, three stores, two taverns, in one of which 
the post office was kept, and a number of stables, 4'C. were 
consumed. 

Berlin, eight miles south of Somerset, was laid out 
many years ago, and incorporated February 27th, 1821. 
It contains between five and six hundred inhabitants. It 
also contains several churches. 

Stoystown is a flourishing post town and borough, 
incorporated March 29th, 1819, ten miles north-east of 
Somerset, on the Bedford and Pittsburg turnpike road. 
It contains one or two churches, between sixty and sev- 
enty dwellings, and about four hundred inhabitants. Mr. 
Stoy an old revolutionary soldier laid out this place. It 
is said that some ten or twelve years ago the ruins of a 
house were still seen, built in 1758, the time of Forbes' 
expedition. 

Christian Frerierick Post, on his way with a message from the 
goveriiDr of Pennsylvania to the Indians on the Ohio, passed through 
here Noveinbpr 6tli, I75S. On the 4th he and his company arrived 
at Raysiown (Bedldrd). In his jouinal of the 5th Nov. he says: — 
'•Rose early, and it raining smartly we asked our Indians if they 
would go;* which they took time to consult about — The Cherokees 
came and told them, the English had killed about thirty of their peo- ' 
pie, for taking some horses; which they resented much; and told our 
Indians they had better go home, than go any further with us, lest 
ihey should meet with the same. On hearing this, I told them how I 
heard it had happened; upon which our Indians said, they had behav- 
ed like fools, and brought the mischief on themselves. 

"Pisquetomen, (an Indian who had formerly resided at Easton) 

• See page ante, 499, 500. 

47* 



566 HISTORY OP SOMERSET COUNTY. 

before we went from home, made up with Jenny Frazer, and they 
parted good friends — and though it rained hard, we set out at ten 
o'clock and got to the foot of the Allegheny, and lodged at the first run 
of water. 

"Nov. 6th, — One of our horses went back; we hunted a good while 
for him. Then we set off and found one of the worst ro?ds that ever 
was travelled until Stoney creek. Upon the road we overtook a great 
number of pack horses; whereupon Pisquelomen said: 'Brother, 
now you see, if you had not come to us before, this road would not be 
so safe as it is ; now you see, we could have destroyed ail this people 
on the road, and great mischief would have been done, if you had not 
stopl, and drawn our people hack.' 

" We were informed that the greneral (Forbes) was not yet gone to 
Fort Du Quesne, whereupon Pisquelomen said, he was glad and ex- 
pressed himself thus: 'If I can come to our towns before the gener- 
al makes his attack, I know your people will draw back, and leave 
the French.' 

" We lodged this night at Stnney creek. Nov. 7th. — We rose early, 
and made all the haste we could on our journey; we crossed the large 
creek, jR(?A;em/?«/m, near Laurel hill. Upon this hill we overtook the 
artillery, and came before sunset to Loyalhanna. We were gladly 
received in the camp by the general, and most of the people. We 
made our fire near the other Indian camps, which pleased our peo- 
ple, &c."* 

Petersburg is a post town in Addison township, on 
the National road, 22 miles southwest from the county 
town, contains between twenty and thirty dweUings, tav- 
erns, stores, &c, Popu'ation rising of two hundred, 

Smythfield, or Somerfield Post ofHce, is a village on 
the east side of the Youghiogeny, where that liver is cross- 
ed by the National turnpike load. Population about 200. 

Salisbury, a post town, is in Elk Lick township, near 
Little Youghiogeny river, about 17 miles south of Som- 
erset borough; contains between 25 and 30 dwellings. — 
Population about 200. 

Milford, Jennersville, Lexington, Shanksville, 
&c., are small villages, whose gt^ograp'iical locality may 
known by reference to the map of the county. 

The region of country of which this county forms a 
part was occasionally visited by Indian traders nearly one 
hundred and thirty years ago, although no actual settle- 
ments were made till sometime after Fort Du Quesne had 
been in the possession of the English. Among the ear- 
liest white traders were James Le Tort, Peter Shaver. 

' * For particulars see Compiler's History of Western Pa. Appendix, 
pp.^100— 105. 



HISTORV OF SOMERSET COUNTY. 567 

Of Cheaver; and about 1740, John Evans, Henry Devoy, 
Owen Nicholson, Alexander Magenty, Patrick Burns, 
George Hutchinson, and others. The southwestern part 
of the county, which was supposed to be within the 
bounds of Virginia, was visited by adventurers from 
Maryland, prior to 1 754. With the exception of the oc- 
casional visit of Indian traders, and visits of adventurers, 
Somerset was a wilderness trodded by the wild beasts 
and the savage Indians till the middle of the last century. 

Late in the fall of 175.9 George Washington, on a mes- 
sage to the French commandant at Fort Le Boeuf, passed 
through the southwestern part of the county. He had 
been commissioned for that purpose by Robert Dinwid- 
die, governor of Virginia. His commission is dated Oc- 
tober 30th, 1753. Washington in his Journal says: — 

"I was commisioned and appointed by the Hon. Rob- 
ert Dinwiddle, Esq., governor, &c. of Virginia, to visit 
and deliver a letter to the commandant of the French for- 
ces at the Ohio, and set out on the intended journey on 
the same day: the next, I arrived at Fredericksburg, and 
engaged Mr. Jacob Vanbraam to be my French interpre- 
ter, and proceeded with him to Alexanihia, where we 
provided necessaries, thence we went to Wind tester, and 
got baggage, horses, &c., and from thence we pursued the 
new road to Will's creek, where we arrived on the l4th 
of November, 1753 — Then I engaged Mr, Gist to pilot 
us out, and also hired four others as servitors, Barnaby 
Currin and John McQuire, Indian traders, Henry Steward 
and William Jenkins; and in company with these persons 
left the inhabitants the next day. The excessive rain? 
and vast quantity of snow which had fallen prevented 
our reaching Mr, Frazier's, an Indian trader, at the mouth 
of Turtle creek, &c." 

The spring following, 1754, April 25th, Washington, 
then on his way to repel the French from encroaching, 
sent a detachment of sixty men to open a road, whicti 
passed through the southwestern corner of this county.* 
The detachment of April 25th, was joined by the main 
body of t!ie army. May 1st. The road had to be cut out 
as they proceeded, trees felled, rocks removed, in the route 
through mountain passes, 

* Sparks' Washington, Vol. II. p. 7—15. 



568 HISTORY OF SOMERSET COUNTY. 

In 1755 General Braddock with his army passed along 
the road opened through this county to Fort Du Quesne. 
In 1758, the northern part of the county was penetrated 
by Colonel Bouquet, under the command of Gen. Forbes, 
who with an army of six thousand men, in October, 1758, 
marched through Somerset county, along Bouquet's road, 
a route which the Colonel had strenuously advocated and 
prevailed upon General Forbes to adopt. In the month 
of August seventeen hundred men had been employed 
west of Bedford, in constructing tliis road across the 
mountains to Loyalhanna.* 

The plan of the campaign of 1758, embraced three expeditions — 
The first against Louisburg; the second against Ticonderoga; the 
third against Fort Du Quesne which was confided to Brig. General 
Forbes. His force amounted to seven thousand men, consisting of 
twelve hundred Highlanders, three hundred and fifty Royal Americans, 
twenty-seven hundred Provincials, from Pennsylvania, one hundred 
from Delaware, then called the Lower Counties, sixteen hundred from 
Virginia, two hundred and fifty from Maryland, one hundred and fifty 
from North Carolina, and about one thousand wagoners and laborers. 
The twelve hundred Highlanders were divided into four conipanies, 
and the three hundred Royal Americans inio four. 

The troops from Virginia, North Carolina and Maryland, were or- 
dered to assemble at Winchester, under Culonel Washington; and 
the Pennsylvania forces at Raystown, now Bedford, where Colonel 
Bouquet had "arched the regular troops, in advance of Gen. Forbes, 
who remained at Philadelphia until the combined army would be in 
readiness to move forward. But the ill health of Gen. Forbes, the dif- 
ficulties in procuring supplies and means of transportation, and the 
construction of a new road lor the army, the artillery, and baggage 
wagons to pass over the mountains, detained the expedition until late 
in the season. Colonel Washington strongly recommended that the 
army should follow the route of Braddock, as it would take but little 
time to repair the road, which was the best over the mountains, ai.d 
remonstrated against cutting a new road, as it might eniirely defeat 
the expedition, by unnecessary delav- Colonel Bouquet strenuously 
fidrocaled a new route through Pennsylvania, and prevailed upon 
General Forbes to adopt it; and on the first of August, seven:een 
hundred men were employed west of Bedford, in constructing a road 
across the mountains, to the Loyalhanna. 

Gen. Forbes, after leaving Philadelphia, was detained by sickness 
at Carlisle, which place he left some time in July, to join Col. Bou- 
quet at Bedford, but on the 18th of August, had not proceeded further 
than Shippensburg. He was at Fort Loudon the 9th of September, 
and reached Bedford soon after, where he was joined by Col. Wash- 
ington from Fort Cumberland, with the troops under his command. 

Col. Bouquet had already advanced to Loyalhanna, with two thou- 
sand five hundred troops, five miles west of Bedford. Gen. Forbes 

* Spark's Washington, Vol. ii. p. 307. 



HISTORY OF SOMERSET COUNTY. 569 

with the main body, did not reach Loyalhanna before the last of Oc- 
tober. 

In the meantime, Col. Bouquet had sent out Major Grant, of a High- 
land regiment, with thirty-seven officers and eight hundred and five 
privates, to reconnoitre the fort and adjacent country. His instruc- 
tions were not to approach too near the Fort and to avoid the risk of 
an attack. 

Though the French were apprised of the approach of Gen. Forbes, 
and had spies out constantly to report the progress of his troops, yet 
the detachment uncb?r Maj. Grant, leaving Loyalhanna on the elev- 
enth of September, completely succeeded in reaching Fort Du Quesne, 
fifty miles distant, unobserved. The third day after their departure 
they arrived within eleven miles of Fort Du Quesne, and halted until 
three o'clock in the afternoon. The troops then quietly marched to 
a point about two miles from the Fort, where they left iheir baggage 
under charge of Capt. Bullet, two subalterns and filty men. It was 
alieady dark, and at eleven o'clock at night, Major Grant appeared 
with his troops on the brow of the fatal hill which still bears his name, 
between the two rivers, about a quarter of a mile from the fort. 

From the apparent stillness of the enemy's quarters, and meeting 
with neither French nor Indians on the march, Major Grant supposed 
that the forces in the fort must be comparatively small, and at once 
determined to make an attack. Two officers and fifty men were ac- 
cordingly directed to approach the fort and fall upon the French and 
Indians that might be lymg out, if not in too great numbers. They 
saw none, nor were they challenged by the sentinels. As they re- 
turned they set fire to a large storehouse, but the fire was discovered 
and extinguished. 

At break of day Maj. Lewis was sent with two hundred men, prin- 
cipally American regulars and Virginia volunteers, to take post about 
half a mile back, and lie in ambush on the road on which they had 
left their baggage, under the pretension of fears that the enemy would 
make a bold attempt to capture it. But the secret of it was — Major 
Grant who was jealous of Major Lewis, wished to have the glory alone 
of capturing an enemy who had so signally repulsed Gen. Braddock, 
with his thousands. 

Four hundred men were posted along the hill facing the fort, to 
cover the retreat of Capt. McDonald's company, who marched with 
drums beating towards the enemy, in order to draw a party out of the 
fort ; as Major Grant believed that there were not above two hundred 
men including Indians in the garrison. 

As soon as the garrison was aroused from their slumbers by the 
music of the invaders, both French and Indians sallied out in great 
numbers to the attack. Their whole force was immediately separated 
into three divisions. The first two were sent directly under cover of 
the banks of the river to surround the main body under Maj. Grant — 
and the third delayed a while, to give the others lime, and then dis- 
played themselves before the fort, as if exhibiting their whole strength. 

The attack then commenced, and Capt. McD(mald was immediately 
obliged to fall back upon the main body, and Maj. Grant received and 
returned a most destructive fire. At this moment he suddenly found 
himself flanked on all sides by the detachments fro ii the banks of the 
rivers. The struggle became desperate. The provincial troops coi:\« 



570 HISTORY OF SOMERSET COUNTY. 

cealinf; themselves behind trees made a good defence, but the High- 
landers who stood exposed to the enemy's fire without cover, fell in 
great numbers, and at last gave way and fled. The Provincials, not 
being supported and being overpowered by numbers were compelled 
to follow. 

Major Lewis fearful of an unfavorable issue of the conflict, hastened 
forwards to the relief of Maj. Grant, but soon found himself attacked 
and flanked on both sides. His men at length gave way and the route 
of the troops became general. Several of the men were driven into 
the river and drowned, and Major Lewis was lak*n prisoner. 

Major Grant retreating to the baggage where Capt. Bullet was post- 
ed with his fifty Virginians, again endeavored to rally the flying sol- 
diers. He entreated them in the most pathetic manner to stand by him, 
but in vain, as ihe enemy were close at their heels. As soon as the 
enemy came up, Capt. Bullet attacked them with great fury for awhile, 
but not being supported and most of his men killed, he was obliged 
to give way. The resistance shown by this little company served to 
check the pursuers and give an opportunity to many retreating to 
make their escape. Major Grant and Capt. Bullet were the last to 
desert the field. They separated and Major Grant was taken prisoner. 

In this conflict, which took place on ihe 14th of September, 270 
were killed, 42 wounded and several taken prisoners. It was, says 
Washington, in a letter to the Governor cf Virginia, "a very ill-con- 
certed, or a very ill-executed plan, perhaps both; but it seems to be 
generally acknowledged, that Maj. Grant exceeded his orders, and 
that no disposition was made for engaging." 

Emboldened by the defeat of the detachment under Major Grant, the 
enemy resolved to attack Colonel Bouquet, in his camp at Loyalhan- 
na, before the arrival of the forces from Bedford under Gen. Forbes. 
Accordingly, a force estimated at 1,200 French, and 200 Indians, un- 
der the command of De Vetri, assailed him on the I2th of October, 
with great spirit. After an action which lasted four hours, the French 
were compelled to withdraw with considerable loss. A second attack 
was made during the night, but some shells thrown from the camp, 
compelled them to retreat. The loss of Col. Bouquet in this engage- 
ment, amounted to 67, rank and file, killed and wounded. 

On the 23rd or 24th of October, General Forbes and the rear divis- 
ion of the army, left Bedford and advanced towards Loyalhanna. He 
arrived at the latter place about the first of November, when it was 
determined in a council of war, that it was impracticable to pursue 
the campaign any further, until the ensuing spring. The weather had 
become cold, and the summits of the mountains were white with snow. 
Shortly afier, three Frenchmen who had been sent out to watch the 
movements of the English army were taken prisoners, and their re-- 
port of the weak state of the garrison at Fort Du Quesne, changed 
the determination of General Forbes, and it was resolved in another 
council to prosecute the enierprize as speedily as possible. 

It was learned that the Indians had now mostly deserted the 
French, and returned home. After the failure of the attack upon 
Col. Bouquet, at Loyalhanna, the greater portion left to prepare for 
their winter hunt. 

Colonel Washington was now sent forward in advance of the main 
jirmy, to take command of a division employed in opening the road. 



HISTORY OF SOMERSET COUNTY. 571 

On the I2ih of November he fell in with a number of the enemy, about 
three miles from camp, and in the attack killed one man, and took 
three prisoners. Among the latter was one Johnson, an Englishman, 
■who had been captured by the Indians in Lancaster county, from 
whom was derived full and correct information of the slate of things 
at Fort Du Quesne. A most unfortunate oecurrence happened to the 
provincial troops, on this occasion. The fire of Col. Washington's de- 
tachment being heard at the camp. Col. Mercer, with a number of 
Virginians, were sent to his assistance. The two parlies approaching 
in the dusk of the evening, mistook each other for enemies. A num- 
ber of shots were exchanged, by which a Lieutenant and thirteen or 
fourteen Virginians were killed. 

On the I3th, a force of one thousand men under Colonel Armstrong 
pushed forward to assist Colonel Washington in opening the road for 
the artillery and bag-gage. On the 17th, General Forbes followed with 
4,300 effective men, leaving strong garrisons at Bedford and Loyal- 
hanna. 

The army progressed slowly. The weather was damp and chilly, 
and the road, though cut as the army proceeded, was extremely bad 
from falling rain. A number of friendly Indians were constantly kept 
out as scouts, and every precaution was taken to guard against sur- 
prise. 

When the army had arrived within 12 miles of the fort, they were 
met by some of the Indians who had been reconnoitering in advance, 
with a report that the French had set fire to the fort. A dense cloud 
of smoke had been discovered ascending from the place and extending 
along the Allegheny bottom. Shortly afterwards other scouts arrived, 
who had approached sufficiently near on the hills to see the place, 
with certain intelligence that the fort was burnt and abandoned. 

A company of cavalry was immediately sent forward with instruc- 
tions to extinguish the fires and save as much as practicable. The 
whole army followed as speedily as possible, and arrived at the ruins 
on the 25th day of November, after a hurried march of five days 
from the fort on the Loyalhanna. 

The abandoned fortress Du Quesne, and the cabins around it, were 
principally destroyed, while the blackened chimneys of more than 30 
tenements stood in desolate relief from the smouldering ruins. 

There were two fortifications, about 200 yards distant from each 
other— one constructed with immense labor, and at great expense, — 
small, but .nrong, and calculated to concentrate great powers of resis- 
tance within a small space, and standing on the point of land at the 
confluence of the two rivers. The other stood on the bank of the Al- 
legheny, and was built in the form of a parallelogram, not so strong as 
the first, and its outworks having the appearance of being unfinished. 

There were two magazines, one of which was blown up and ruined 
by the springing of a mine of powder. In the other were found 16 
barrels of ammunition, gun-barrels, a large quantity of carriage iron, 
and a wagon load of scalping-knives. Their cannon had been re- 
moved, but whether taken with them down the Ohio, or sunk in the 
river, is unknown. 

There were about 400 or 500 Frenchmen in the fort at the time of 
its evacuation, a part of whom went down the Ohio, and the remain- 
der with Governor M. de Lif nery to Presq' Isle and Venango. 



572 HISTORY OF SOMERSET COUNTY. 

On the 2nd of November, before the abandonment of the fort, a boy 
12 years of age, who had been two years a prisoner with the French, 
made his escape, and reached the approaching army. He testified 
that a quantity of dry wood was carried into the fort, and that five of 
the prisoners taken at Grant's defeat had been burned to death with 
it, and that they delivered others to the savages, who tomahawked 
them at once. 

On the arrival of the army, numbers of the bodies of those who fell 
at the fatal skirmish with Grant, lay scattered around over the memo- 
rable hill, scalped and mutilated. The rites of burial were performed 
by the soldiers, and iheir remains consigned to the earth. Afterwards 
were gathered the whitened bones of those who fell on the bloody field 
of Braddock, and committed to a soldier's grave. The capture of 
Fort Du Quesne was hailed every where throughout the colonies as 
the harbinger of better times. Gov. Denny communicated the partic- 
ulars of the campaign to the Assembly of Pennsylvania, and congrat- 
ulated the province upon the triumph of the English arms. The As- 
sembly drew up an answer to the address, responding to the tone ot 
the Governor's Message, congratulating him upon the expulsion of 
the French from the Ohio, the regaining of the friendship of the Indi- 
ans, and expressing a willingness to co-operate with him in frustrating 
the ambitious views of the French in extending their settlements from 
Canada to the Mississippi. 

During the little time the French occupied this stronghold and key 
to the west, an immense amount of suffering and bloodshed had fallen 
upon the English. Four years and eight months had passed, memor- 
■able for the terrors and cruelties of unsparing warfare, since Ensign 
Ward, with a little party of 40 men, had fled at the approach of the 
formidable motley-manned batteau and Indian canoe-fleet of Contra- 
coeur, from his unfinished fortification, upon which was erected Fort 
Du Quesne, and from the fire-scathed wails of which, now, at last, 
floated the proud flag of England. 

The success of this campaign produced the happiest effects upon 
the Indian tribes, lately the allies of the French. Conferences were 
held at the old site of Fort Du Quesne, when the Delawares imme- 
diately sued for peace. Gen. Forbes ordered the fort to be repaired, 
left in it a garrison of 200 provincial troops, built a brick house near 
the Loyalhanna and manned it, and marched the remainder of the 
army to the other side of the mountains. 

Thus ended the campaign of 1758. It expelled the French, for- 
ever, from the confluence of the Monongahela and the Allegheny, 
and established, in perpetuity, the possession of the Anglo Saxon 
race in the great West. 

Bouquet's roads continued for many years to be the 
only road from Bedford to Pittsburg, for pack-horses, foot- 
men, and wagons. It was along this road that the first 
pioneer settled. 

The first settlers were occasionally molested by the In- 
dians during the Revolutionary war and Indian wars suc- 
ceeding. The hostile savages made occasional incursions 
and drove the frontier settlers on the outskirts of the 
county into the more populous parts. 



HISTORY OF SOMERSET COUNTY. 573 

The inhabitants of this county are principally of Ger- 
man descent, and the German is the prevaiUng language; 
though English is generally understood by all the young- 
er portion. The principal religious denominations are 
Lutheran, German Reformed, Methodist, Mennonite, Bap- 
tist, Amish, Presbyterian, and Catholic. 

Education is not in a flourishing condition. The com- 
mon school system is, however, in some parts of the coun- 
ty, well received. There is an academy of advanced 
standing in Somerset, to which, some years ago, the Leg- 
islature granted $2000, and smce, occasionally, smaller 
sums. 



48 



HISTORY OF CAMBRIA COUNTY. 



CHAPTER XLVir. 



CAMBRIA COUNTY. 



Cambria county erected — Limits ol the county — Surface of the coun- 
try diversified — Description of— Geology of— General statistics of 

, 1840 — Synopsis of the census of 1840 — Streams described — Public 
improvements— Ebensburg the county town — Johnstown — Loretto 

j Munster — The Summit, &c. — Early settlements — Conrad Weiser 
and others pass through Cambria county in 1778, &c. 

Cambria county, originally part of Somerset and Hun- 
tingdon, was erected by an act of the J legislature, March 
26th, 1804. The counties of which it formed a part were 
erected — the former, April 17th, 1795, the latter Septem- 
ber 20th, 1787. 

Cambria county, by the act of 1804, has the following 
limits : "Beginning at the Conemaugh river, at the south- 
east corner of Indiana county ; thence a straight line to 
the Canoe place on the West Branch of the Susquehan- 
nah; thence east along the line of Clearfield county to the 
southwest corner of Centre county on the heads of Muah- 
anon creek; thence south along the Allegheny mountains 
to Somerset and Bedford county lines; thence along the 
lines of Somerset and Bedford counties, seventeen miles, 
until a due west course from thence will strike the main 
branch of Paint creek; thence down said creek, the dif- 
ferent courses thereof, till it empties into Stoney creek ; 
thence down Stoney creek, the different courses, to the 
mouth of Mill creek ; thence a due west line till it inter- 
sects the line of Somerset and Westmoreland counties ; 
thence north along the same line, to the place of begin- 
ning." 

The seat of justice was at first designed at Beula, built 



HISTORY OP CAMBRIA COUNTY. 575 

by a company of Welsh immigrants, now deserted and 
/alien into decay, a few miles from the present Shiretown, 
where it was established by an act of 1805. Two years 
afterwards the county was fully organized for judicial 
purposes. 

This county is bounded on the east by Blair, formerly 
part of Bedford, north by Clearfield, west by Indiana 
and Westmoreland, and south by Somerset county. — 
Length 35 miles; breadth 19; area, 670 square miles. 

By an act of the Legislature, passed March 29th, 1805, 
the trustees of the county were authorized to receive 
assurances for certain lots and lands for the use of the 
county, granted by Messrs. John and Stephen Lloyd, to 
dispose of such lots and erect public buildings. Its pop- 
ulation was in 1810, 2,117; in 1820, 3,287; in 1830, 
7,079; and in 1840, 11,256. 

The county is at present divided into the following 
townships, viz : Allegheny, Cambria, Carroll, Clearfield", 
Conemaugh, Jackson, Jefferson, Loretto, Munster, Sum- 
merhill, Susquehanna, Washington and White. 

This is an elevated and mountainous country, lying on 
the high table land west of the Allegheny mountains, with 
an irregular and rolling surface, furrowed by deep and 
precipitous ravines. Dark forests of various species of 
pine of huge size, hickory, ash, maple, cherry, elm, &c., 
cover the greater portion of the surface of the county. — 
Here and there, in the dense forest, clearings have been 
made by the axe of the hardy settler who has erected 
his humble, wooden cottage, and established his house 
where the comforts of life, though in the solitude of a 
partial wilderness, are accumulating — arable, and some 
well cultivated farms, higlily productive, are to be met 
with in the narrow valleys along the streams. Only about 
one half of the county is tillable. The hills are not fertile, 
but adapted to grazing cattle, and raising of sheep. Im- 
. proved land from eight to thirty dollars the acre ; Un- 
improved from 75 cts. to $5. 

Among the earliest whites of whom we have any ac- 
count, that visited this region of country, either as hun- 
ters, traders, or messengers to the Indians in the western 
part of Penasyivania, were Conrad Weiser, for many 



576 



HISTORY OF CAMBRIA COUNTY. 



years Indian agent, George Croghan, Deputy agent to 
the Hon. Sir W. Johnston ; John Harris. 

Conrad Weiser, accompanied by George Croghan, then 
an Indian trader, and well acquainted with the best route 
from Harris' to the Ohio, passed through this county in 
the month of August, 1748."* John Harris, who passed 
through this region westward in 1754, makes mention of 
Hart's and Shaver's sleeping places. The following is 
an extract of his journal : — 

" Now beginning at the Black Log (Huntingdon coun- 
ty) — Frankstown road to Aughwick (Shir!eysburg) six 
miles : Jack Armstrong's Narrows (so called from his 
being murdered heret) eight miles: Standing Stone (Hun- 
tingdon) — Stone about 15 feet high and 6 inches square — 
ten miles. At each of the last places we crossed the Ju- 
niata — the next, and last crossing of Juniata, eight miles: 
Big Lick, ten miles : Frank's (Stephen's) town, five miles : 
Beaver dams ten miles: Allegheny hill, five miles: Clear- 
field's, six miles: Shawanese cabins, twenty-four miles: 
Shaver's sleeping place at two large licks, twelve miles: 
Eighteen mile run, twelve miles: Ten mile lick, six miles: 
to Kiscomenettas town on the creek which runs into the 
Allegheny riyer, six miles — &c., die." 

Bituminious coal is found in various parts of the coun- 
ty, but is not extensively mined except for domestic con- 
sumption ; and along the Allegheny Portage railroad, 
where considerable quantities are dug for the supply of 
the stationary engines at the inclined planes, and for the 
transportation eastward on the canal. Iron ore is found 
in several places, but has not yet been worked. Lime- 
stone, of the quality ussually associated with bituminuous 
coal, is found in several parts of the county. 

According to the statistics of 1840 it appears 220,500 
bushels of bituminous coal were raised by 33 men, cap- 
ital invested $3,710. It contains 2,590 horses; 8,518 neat 
cattle, 11,561 sheep, 10,769 swine, poultry of various 
kinds estimated at $1,979; there were 34,421 bushels of 
wheat raised, 1,473 of barlt-y, 114,470 of oats, 22,704 of 
rye, 15,827 wheat, 31,943 corn, 17,941 pounds of wool, 
87,856 bushels of potatoes, 5,584 tons of hay, 8 tons of 

* See Weiser'i* Journal, 1748, inserted at large in the sequel. In- 
diana county, 
f See pages 59 — 61 ante. 



HISTORY OF CAMBRIA COUNTY. 577 

hemp and flax, 27,539 pounds of sugar made ; products 
of the dairy were valued at $8,621 ; products of the or- 
chard $1,129; of home made and family goods $6,193. 
Ten cominission ware houses; capital invested $5,900: 
32 retail dry good, grocery and other stores; capital inves- 
ted $SS,S00: two lumber yards, capital ;SS1,000. One hun- 
dred and ten men were employed in internal transporta- 
tion. Six tanneries, in which were tanned 952 sides of 
sole leather, 1,250 of upper, by ten men, with a capital 
of $1 2,200. There was one brewery in the county, wliich 
produced 9,000 gallons of beer; capital invested $1000. 
One pottery produced to the value of $250 Grist mills 
20, saw mills 60. In agriculture 1,729 persons were em- 
ployed, in commerce 59, in manufactures and trades 477, 
in the learned j>rofessions 33; there were 71 primary 
schools, 2,690 scholars. 

In liS40 several Revolutionary pensioners were still liv- 
ing in this county — Ludvvig Weisinger, aged 84; George 
Lucas, ag^d 90; Pliim Hayes, 88; John Plott, 85; Gott- 
fried Settlemeyer, 88; Samuel Cole, 79. Then were 
1,12S white persons over twenty years of age who could 
neither re::id nor write. 

This county has no large streams, yet it is very well 
watered, and is well supplied with water power for mills 
of various kinds. 

CoNEMAiTGH river is one of the principal streams in the 
county; it rises on the west side of the Allegheny moun- 
tain n'-ar the middle of the eastern boundary, and bears 
the name of Little Con.unaugh — flowing southwest it re- 
ceives the North Branch, which rises near Ebensburg, 
and the sou-h fork whicb has its source in a ce lor swamp, 
at the base of the Allegheny mountain — thence continu- 
ing its course, it unites with Stoney creek at Johnstown; 
thence taking a northwest course, it breaks through the 
Laurel Hill about twelve miles north of the south-west 
angle. 

Stoney creek, the south branch of Conemaugh river, 
rises in Brothers valley township, Somerset county, and 
flows northwest into Conemaugh township, where it 
unites with Little Conemaugh at Johnstown hiving a 
comparative course of nearly forty miles, receiving in its 
course from where it rises, Quemahoning, Shade, Roar- 

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HISTORY OF CAMBRIA COUNTY. 579 

ing, Little Point and Paint creeks. It is navigable for 
boats for about five miles from its mouth. 

Black Lick creek, a main tributary of Conemaugh 
river, rises in this county and flows southwest into Indi- 
ana county to its recipient at Blairsville. It is a consider- 
able stream, having a course of more than thirty miles; 
and is navigable for boats to Black Lick run, nine miles 
from its motith,and ibr canoes to Little Black Lick creek, 
seventeen or eighteen miles higher. In the northern part 
of the county are Clearfield and Chest creeks. The for- 
mer rises on the confines of this county, runs a northern 
course of about eis^hteen miles through Clearfit-ld county, 
to the West branch of the Susquehanna river. Chest 
creek rises a few miles north of Ebensburg, flowing a 
northern course into Clearfield county and tmptiel into 
the West branch of the Susquehamia. All these, with 
numerous small streams, as stated before, affonis an abun- 
dance of water power. The time is not distant when fac- 
tories of various kinds will be erected, and the water that 
now runs waste will be applied to the propelling of their 
machines, &c. The raising of sheep, mariofacture of cloth, 
&c., will call into requisition the propelling power of the 
streams that now meander their way purlingly through 
dense forests. 

The public improvements are the Allegheny Portage rail 
road, crossing the county from east to west, and turnpikes 
from Ebensburg to Pittsburg, Kittanning, and Hollidaysburg. 
The Allegheny Portage rail road is a little more than 
thirty-nine miles and a half in length from Hollidaysburg 
to Johnstown, overcoming in ascent and descent an aggre- 
gate of 2,570 feet; 1,398 of which are on the eastern, and 
i,I72 on the western side of the mountain. It crosses the 
mountain at Blair's Gap summit, and descends along the 
mountain branch of the Conemauyh. The top of the mountain, 
which is some 200 feet higher than the culminating point of 
the railroad, is 2,700 feet above the Delaware river at 
Philadelphia. The ascent antl descent have been overcome 
by ten inclined planes, lifting from 130 to 307 feet, and va- 
rying in inclination between 4 1-8 and 5 5-6 degrees. The 
shortest plane is 1,585 feet, and 130 feet high ; the longest 
is 3,100 feet, and 307 feet high. There is on the line a tun- 
nel of 870 feet long and 20 feet high through the mountam, 
at the Staple bend of the Conemaugh. The principal via- 



580 HISTORY OF CAMBRIA COUNTY. 

duct on the line is that over the Horse-shoe bend ; it is a 
semicircular arch of 80 feet span ; its cost was ^54,502. — 
The Ebensburg and Mountain branch viaducts are 40 feet 
span each. All the viaducts and culverts have been built 
of the most substantial masonry, the character of which is 
in perfect kee()ing with this maonificent mountain pass. The 
iron rail is of great strength, and of an approved pattern, 
corresponding with the importance of the road. Tlie cars 
are elevated by stationary steam-engines at the head ol each 
plane, and on the intervening levels locomotives and horses 
are used. The total cost of the road, including stationary 
engines, &c., exceeded 815-500,000. 

The design was oiigmally entertained of connecting the 
main Pittsburg route by continuing the canals with locks 
and dams as tar as possible on both sides, and then to tun- 
nel through the mountain suminit, a distance of lour miles ! 
Fort\mately, however, this extravagant idea was abandon- 
ed, and surveys for the railroad were commenced in 1828, 
and were continued by various engineers until the appoint- 
ment ot Sylvester Welch, under whom the present location 
was mule. Mr. Welch has immortalized his name by a 
work equal in importance and grandeur to any in the world. 
He has raised a monument to the intelligence, enterprise, 
and public spirit of Pennsylvania, more honorable than the 
temples and pyramids of Egypt, or the triumphant arches 
and columns of Rome. They were erected to commemor- 
ate the names of tyrants, or the battles of victorious chief- 
tains, while these magnificent works are intended to sub- 
serve the interest of agriculture, manufacture and commerce 
— to encourage the arts of Peace — to advance the prosperi- 
ty and ha[)piness of the whole people of the United States — 
to strengthen the bonds of the Union. In October, 1834, 
this portage was actually the means of connecting the wa- 
ters of Eastern Pennsylvania with those of Mississippi ; and 
as the circumstance is peculiarly interesting, we here place 
it on record. Jesse Chrisman, from the Lackawanna, a tribu- 
tary of the north branch of the Susquehanna, loaded his 
boat, named Hit or Miss, with his wife, children, beds and 
family accommoilations, with pigeons and other live-stock, 
and started for Hlinois. At Hollidaysburg, where he ex- 
pected to sell his boat, it was suggested by John Dougherty, 
of the Reliance Transportation line, that the whole concern 



HISTORY OF CAMBRIA COUNTY. 



581 



could be safely hoisted over the mountain and set afloat 
again in the canal. Mr. Dougherty prepared a railroad car 
calculated to bear the novel burden. The boat was taken 
from its proper element and placed on wheels, and under the 
superintendence of JVlajor C. Williams, (who, be it remem- 
bered, was I he first man who ran a boat over the Allegheny 
mountain,) the boat and cargo at noon on the same day be- 
gan their progress over the rugged Allegheny. All this was 
done without disturbing the family arrangements of cooking, 
sleepinjT, &c. They rested at night on the top of the moun- 
tain, like Noah's ark on Ararat, and descended next morning 
into the valley of the Mississippi, and sailed for St. Louis. 

The trip of a boat over the mountain is now no novel 
sight, except that, instead of going over whole, they are so 
constructed as to be separated into three or four parts on 
reaching the railroad. After thus mounting the cars piece- 
meal, with their loads of emigrants, baggage, and freight 
on board, they wend their way over the mountains, and re- 
suming their proper element at Johnstown, they unite their 
parts again and glide on to the waters of the great west. — 
Since this road was constructed, such improvements have 
been made in the construction of locomotives, that a project 
has been suggested for re-locating the whole road, and so 
arranging and extending the grades as to adapt them to the 
tractive power of locomotives, and dispense entirely with 
stationary engines, or, at any rate, with all except one at the 
extreme summit. This route would cioss the summit by a 
gap north of the present route. 

Ebknsburg, incorporated in 1825, so named by the Rev. 
Rees Lloyd, who had settled here as early as 1796, is the 
county seat, and is a flourishing village, situated on the top 
of one of the ridges of the Allegheny mountains, seven 
miles west of the summit, and commands a grand and impos- 
ing view of the circumjacent region of country. The town 
is tolerably well built. It contains about fifty houses, there 
are four churches, several stores and taverns, a handsome 
brick academy, to the erection of which the state appropri- 
ated $2,000 in 1819; a court house and prison. Formerly 
the courts were held for many years, in the second story of 
an old rickety wooden building, the lower story being occu- 
pied as a jail. 

A ludicrous story is told of a mountain suitor, who being obstrep- 



t)82 HISTORY OF CAMBRIA COuNiY. 

erous in his drink, was committed for contempt of court, to this pris- 
on. This punishment induced a fit of devotion, attended by an un- 
conquerable desire for Psalm-singing, in the gratification of which, 
he purchased the aid of a fellow prisoner. Their joint performance, 
singing at an elevated pitch of voice, overpowered even ihe loudest 
tones of the advocate who was addressing the jury, and compelled 
the court to adjourn until the term of committal of the prisoners had 
expired. 

" Ofie half of thepop'ilation of the town, and the greater 
proportion for miles around it are composed of Welsh — a 
people remarkable for thrift, sobriety, and industry. The 
ancient tongue of Cambria strikes the ear of the traveller 
from nearly every one he meets, and the services of three of 
the churches are conducted in that language. Indeed, it is 
only occasionally that one may hear English preaching in 
Ebensburg. 

Ebensburg is 74 miles east from Pittsburg, 134 west from 
Harrisburg, and 232 from Pliiladelphia. Population 400. 

Johnstown, (formerly called Coneraaughtown) in the 
southwestern angle of the county, is situated on a broad flat, 
encircled by elevated hills, at the confluence of Little Cone- 
raatigh and Stoney creek. The village is regularly laid out 
and contains about one hundred or more dwellings; several 
taverns, stores and "shops," a mill and forge. In the cen- 
tre of the town a basin is formed by damming the Conemaugh, 
to accommodate canal bo;its plying between this place and 
Pittsburg. The basin is lined with ware houses, boat yards, 
and crowded with other conveniences for receiving and de- 
livering goods. There is a number of forwarding houses 
here, owned principally by owners of lines for transporta- 
tion. During the spring and summer season, this is a stir- 
ring place. The dwellings are generally good — some built 
of brick. There are several churches here, — Catholic, Pres- 
byterian, Lutheran and Methodist. No place can excel this 
for its salubrity of air. The state owns an extensive depot 
here for repairing locomotives and other machinery. 

Johnstown it is maintained occupies the sight of an old 
Indian town called Kickenapawling^s old town. About the 
year 1791 or '92 Joseph Yahns, a pioneer German settled 
here. The original title deeds of many of the town lots are 
in John's or Yahn's name. According to some, Mr. Holli- 
day seems to have been the first owner of property here, 
whether with Mr. Yahns, or afterward, is not certain. As 



HISTORY OF CAMBRIA COUNTY. 583 

it was the head of navigation to those seeking the western 
waters, it became a place of shipment for the iron of Hun- 
tingdon county, and tor the lumber and produce of the vicin- 
ty, as well as the emigration destined lor the west. Arks 
and flatboats were then the only mode of conveyance. The 
pigs and blooms of Juniata iron were hauled over the Franks- 
town road, by the gap of that name. 

Christian Frederick Post who had been sent from Philadelphia to 
Ohio, in 1758, on a message from the government of Pennsylvania, 
to the Indians, passed through this region of country, in his journal 
of November 11th, he says: we started early, and came to the old 
Shawanesetown, called Herkkekiicpulin, grown up with weeds, briars, 
and bushes, that we could scarcely get through. Pisquetomen (an 
Indian that had accompanied Post from Reading) led us upon a steep 
hill, that our horses could hardly gel up ; and Thomas Hickman's 
horse tumbled, and rolled down the hill like a wheel; on which he 
grew angry, and would go no further with us, and said, he would go 
by himself. It happened we found a path on the top of the hill. At 
three o'clock we came to Kiskemeneco, an old Indian town, a rich 
bottom, weil-timbered, good fine grass, well watered, and lays waste 
since the war began. We lei our horses feed here, and agreed that 
Lieutenant Hays might go back with his party; and, as they were 
short of provision, we therefi>re gave them a little of ours, which 
they took very kind of us. Thomas Hickman could find no other 
road, and came to us again a little ashamed. We were glad to see 
him, and we went about three miles further, when we made a large 
fire. 

Proceeding on his way several days, Post and company arrived at 
the mouth of Beaver creek, or Old French Town. In his Journal of 
the 17th of Septeiiiber, he says: There were five Frenchmen in the 
town; the rest were gone to war. We held a council with Delaware 
George, delivered him the string and presents that were sent him, and 
informed him of the general's (Forbes') sentiments, and what he de- 
sired of them ; upon which he agreed, and complied to go with Mr. 
Bull to the general. Towards night KcckkekacpaUn came and told us 
the disagreeable news that they had fallen in with that party that had 
guided us. They had killed Lieutenant Hays, and four men, and 
took five prisoners; the others got clear off. They had a skirmish 
with them within twelve miles of Fort Du Quesne. Further, he told 
us that one of the captives was burnt, which grieved us. [Appendix 
to the Author's His. W. Pa., p. 105, ^r. 

LoRETTo, a post village in Allegheny township, is a 
small village, a few miles northwest of Ebensburg. It is 
the site of a Catholic church, founded by the liberality and 
sustained by the labors of the Rev. Demetrius Augustine Gal- 
litzin. It contains about twenty dvvellings, and 160 inhab- 
itants. Irish and German compose the principal population. 

The Rev. GalJitzin died May 6, 1840, at Loretto. He 



584 



HISTORY OF CAMBRIA COUNTY. 



exercised the pastoral functions in Carabria County for forty- 
two years. He was born in 1770 at Munster, in Germany. 
His father, Prince cle Gallitzin, rani<etl among the highest 
nobility iji Russia. His mother was the daughter of Field 
Marshal General Schmeltan, a celebrated officer under Fred- 
erick the Great. Her brother fell at the battle of Jena. The 
deceased held a high commission in the Russia army from 
his infancy. Europe in the early part of his life was deso- 
lated by war — The French revolution burst like a volcano 
upon that convulsed continent: it offered no facilities or at- 
tractions for travel, and it was determined that the young 
JPrince de Gallitzen should visit America. He landed in 
Baltimore in Aug., 1782, in company with Rev. Mr. Brosi- 
us. By a train of circumstances in which the hand of Prov- 
idence was strikingly visible, his mind was directed to the 
ecclesiastical state, and he renounced forever his brilliant 
prospect. Already endowed with a splendid education, he 
was the more prepared to pursue his eccksiastical studies, 
under Bishop Carroll, at Baltimore, with facility and suc- 
cess. Having com|)leted his theological course, he spent 
some time on the mission in Maryland. 

In the year 1789, he directed his course to the Allegheny 
mountain, and found that portion of it which now constitutes 
Cambria co., a perfect wilderness, almost without inhabi- 
tants or habitations After incredible labor and privations, 
and expending a princely fortune, he succeeded in making 
' the wilderness blossom as the rose.' His untiring zeal has 
collected about Loretto, his late residence, a Catholic popu- 
lation of .three or four thousand. He not only extended the 
church by his missionary toils, but also illustrated and defen- 
ded the truth by several highly useful publications. His 
* Defence of Catholic principles' has gained merited celebrity 
both here and in Europe. 

In this extraordinary man we have not only to admire his 
renunciation of the brightest hopes and prospects ; his inde- 
fatigable zeal — but something greater and rarer — his won- 
derful humility. No one conld ever learn from him or his 
mode of life, what he had been, or what he exchanged for 
privation and poverty. 

To intimate to him that you were aware of his condition, 
would be sure to pain and displease him. He who might 
have revelled in the princely halls of his ancestors, was con- 



HISTORY OF CAMBRIA COUNTY- 583 

tent to spend 30 years in a rude log-cabin, almost denying 
himself the common comforts of life, that he might be able 
to clothe the naked members of Jesus Christ, the poor and 
distressed. Few have left behind them such examples of 
charity and benevolence. On the head of no one have been 
invoked so many blessings from the mouths of widows and 
orphans. It may be literally said of him, *if his heart 
had been made of gold he would have disposed of it all in 
charity to the poor.'— Mountaineer^ Ehenshurg, May 14, 
1840. 

MuNSTER is a small village, five miles east of the county 
town, on the turnpike, containing about 80 inhabitants. 

BuELA, once a small town, was built by a company of 
Welsh immigrants, but now deserted and fallen into decay, 
except one house. 

The Summit, is the name of a small village, at the sum- 
mit of the Allegheny Portage railroad, consisting of some 
eighteen or more dwellings, taverns, stores, &c. — population 
rising of 100. At No. 3 is another brisk village. 

The earliest settlements within the hmits of this county 
were commenced a few years after the Revolution. The 
population is composed of various elements. Many of the 
inhabitants immigrated hither from the eastern continent — 
from Scotland, Ireland, Wales, &c. ; others from New Jer- 
sey and the eastern part of Pennsylvania, principally Germans. 
The increase of population has been steady. In 1810, the 
population was 2,117; in 1820, 3,287; in 1830, 7,096; in 
1840, 11,256; at present rising of 14,000. A more indus- 
trious class of citizens is no where to be found in Pennsyl- 
vania. They are moral, and many of them decidedly religi- 
ous. The prevailing denominations are Catholic, Baptist 
and Presbyterian. 

" It is believed that Captain Michael McGuire was the 
first white man that settled within the present bounds of 
Cambria county. He settled near Loretto in 1790, com- 
menced improving that now interesting and well cultivated 
portion of Allegheny township, a portion of which is still 
owned by his descendants. 

"Mr. McGuire was followed not long afterward by Cor- 
nelius Maguire, Richard Nagle, Wra. Dotson, Richard Ash- 
craft, Michael Rager, James Alcorn, and Jonn Storm; the 
last was of German descent. These were followed by oth- 

49 



584 



HISTORY OF CAMBRIA COUNTY, 



ers — John Trux, John Douglass, John Byrne, and, we be- 
lieve, Wm. Melovv. Under the auspices of these men, and 
perhaps a few others, the country improved very rapidly.— 
The first grist-mill in the county was built by Mr. John 
Storm. The hardships endured by these hardy settlers are 
almost incredible. Exposed to the inclemency of an Alle- 
gheny winter, against the rigor of which their hastily erect- 
ed and scantily furnished huts afforded a poor protection, 
their sufferings were sometimes almost beyond endurance. — 
Yet with the most unyielding firmness did these men perse- 
vere until they secured for themselves and their posterity the 
inheritance which the latter at present enjoy. 

" There was nothing that could be dignified with the name 
of road by which the settlers might have an intercourse with 
the settlements of Huntingdon co. A miserable Indian path 
led from the vicinity of where Loretto now stands, and in- 
tersecting the road leading to Frankstown, two or three 
miles this side of the Summit. 

"Many anecdotes are related by the citizens of Allegheny 
township of the adventuies of their heroic progenitors among 
the savage beasts, and the more savage Indians, which then 
infested the neighborhood. The latter were not slow to 
seize every opportunity of aggression which presented itself 
to their bloodthirsty minds, and consequently the inhabitants 
held not only property but life itself by a very uncertain 
tenure. The truth of the following story is vouched for by 
many of the most respectable citizens in Allegheny and Cam- 
bria townships, by one of whom it has kindly been furnish- 
ed us for publication, A Mr. .lames Alcorn had settled in 
the vicinity of the spot where Loretto now stamls; and had 
built a hut and cleared a potato patch at some distance from 
It. The wife of Mr. Alcorn went an errand to see the po- 
tatoes, and did not return. Search was immediately made, 
but no trace could be found to lead to her discovery. What 
became of her is to this day wrapped in mystery, and, in all 
human probability, we shall remain in ignorance of her fate. 
It was generally supposed that she had been taken by the 
savages; and it was even reported that she had returned 
several years after ; but this story is not credited by any in 
the neighborhood. 

*' Ebensburg and vicinity were not settled for several years 
after the first settlement was made at Loretto and Munster. 
As it lay still iurther from the more eastern settlements than 



HISTORY OF CAMBRIA COUNTY. 587 

tbB two latter places, it of course would not so soon be oc- 
cupied by the hardy emigrants. In the fall and winter of 
1796, the families of Thomas Philips, William Jenkins, 
Theophilus Rees, Evan Roberts, Rev. Rees Lloyd, 
James Nicholas, Daniel Griffith, Wm. Griffith, John 
Jones, Thomas, Evan James, and George Roberts; 
and Thomas W. Jones, Esq., John Jenkins, Isaac Grif- 
fith, and John Tobias, bachelors, commenced settling in Cam- 
bria township, Cambria co.; and in the following spring and 
summer the families of the Rev. Morgan J. Rees, John J. 
Evans, Wm. Rees, Simon James, Wra. Williams, (South,^ 
Thomas Griffith, John Thomas, John Roberts, (Penbryn,) 
John Roberts, (shoemaker,) David Rees, Robert Williams, 
and George Turner; and Thomas Griffith, (farmer,) James 
Evans, Griffith Rowland, David Edwards, Thomas Lewis, 
and David Davis, bachelors, followed. There were at this 
time several families living in the vicintity of the places 
where Loretto, Munster, Jefferson, and Johnstown now 
stand. The settlers above named, we believe, were all from 
Wales. They commenced making improvements in the dif- 
ferent parts of what is now called Cambria township. The 
name which the Welsh emigrants gave to their settlement, 
Cambria, was derived from their former home — the moun- 
tainous part of Wales. Cambria t'ship afterwards gave name 
to the county, which was, at the time we speak of, a part of 
Somerset co. The tract of country on which the Welsh em- 
igrants settled had been purchased a year or two previous, 
by the Rev. Morgan J. Rees, (mentioned above,) from Dr. 
Benjamin Rush, of Philadelphia; and by him sold to his 
Welsh brethren, in smaller tracts. 

Colonel Armstrong in his expedition against Kittanning in 
1756, passed through this county. A dttailed account of 
this expedition is here inserted , as it forms a part of the early 
bistory of this region of country i 

About the middle of August of this year, Colonel Armstrong made 
preparations for an expedition against Kiitannin?, from which, up the 
Kiskiminetas and down the Juniatta, the Indians made their incur- 
sions. At this place, amtnunition and supplies for the Indians, was 
sent by the Freiich to carry havoc into the settlements. At this place 
■the noted Captain Jacobs, a Delaware, lived, and the famous Shingas 
also occasionally resided. To break up this Indian rendezvous, and 
io strike a blow which would be fell by the savages, and relieve the 
frontier settlements from the horrors of Indian warfare, the expeditioa 
^f Col. Armstrong was planned, and gallantly carried into execution. 
HliS fores ^.onsisted of 307 men. 



588 HISTORY OF CAMBRIA COUNTY. 

The following is the official report of Col. Armstrong, and is an ex- 
cellent history of the transaction : 

Fort Littletoh*, Sept. 14th, 1756. 

May it please your Honor: — Agreeable to mine of the 29th ult., we 
marched from Fort Shirleyf the day following, and on Wednesday* 
the 3d instant, joined our advanced party at the Beaver Dams, a few 
miles from Frankslown, on the north branch of Juniata We were 
there informed that some of our men having been out upon a scout, 
had discovered the tracks of two Indians on this side oi the Alleghe- 
ny Mountain, and but a few m.les from the camp. From the fresh- 
ness of the tracks, their killing of a cub bear, and the marks of their 
fires, it seemed evident they were not twenty-four hours before us, 
which might be looked upon as a particular Providence in our favor 
that we were not discovered. Next morning we decamped, and in 
two days came within fifty miles of the Kittanning. It was then ad- 
judged necessary to'send some persons to reconnoitre the town, and 
to get the best intelligence they could concerning the situation and 
position of the enemy. Whereupon an officer, with one of the pilots 
and two soldiers, were sent off on that purpose. 

The day following, we met them on their return, and they informed 
us that the roads were entirely clear of the enemy, and that they had 
the greatest reason to believe they were not discovered; but from the 
rest of the intelligence they gave, it appeared they had not been nigh 
enough the town, either to perceive the true situation of it, the num- 
ber of the enemy, or what way it might be most advantageously at- 
tacked. 

We continued our march, intending to get as near the town as pos- 
sible that night, so as to be able to attack it next morning about day- 
light ; but to our great dissatisfaction, about nine or ten o'clock at 
night, one of our guides came and told us ihat he perceived a fire by 
the roadside, at which he saw two or three Indians, a few perches 
distant from our front. Whereupon, with all possible silence, I or- 
dered the rear to retreat about one hundred perches, in order to make 
•way for the front, that we might consult how we could best proceed 
without being discovered by the enemy. 

Some time after the pilot returned a second time, and assured us 
from the best observations he could make, there were not above three 
or four Indians at the fire. On which it was proposed that we should 
immediately surround, and cut them off; but this was thought too haz- 
ardous; for, if but one of the enemy had escaped, it would have been 
the means of discovering the whole design, and the light of the moon, 
on which depended our advantageously posting our men, and attack- 
ing the town, would not admit of our staying until the Indians fell 
asleep. On which it was agreed to have Lieut. Hogg go with twelve 
men and the person who first discovered the fire, with orders to watch 
the enemy, but not to attack them until break of day, and then, if pos- 
sible, to cut them off. It was also agreed (we believing ourselves to be 
but about six miles from the town,) to leave the horses, many of them 
being tired, with what blankets and other baggage we then had, and 
take a circuit off of the road, which was very rough and incommodi- 
ous, on account of the stones and fallen timber, in order to prevent our 
being heard by the enemy at the fire place. 

, * Bedford County, Pa. f Huntingdon County, . 



HISTORY OP CAMBRIA COUNTY. 589 

This interruption much retarded our march ; but a still greater loss 
arose froiR the ignorance of our pilots, who ueitlier knew the true sit- 
uation of ihe town, nor ihe best paths that led thereto; by which 
means, after crossing a number of hills and villeys, our front reached 
the river Allegheny, about one hundred perches below the main body 
•of the town, a little before the setting of the moon; to which place, 
rather than by pilots, we were guided by the beating of the drums and 
the whooping of the warriors, at their dances. 

It then became us to make the best use of the remaining moonlight; 
but ere we were aware, an Ind an whistled in a very singular manner, 
about thirty perches from our front, in the foot of a corn field; — upon, 
which we immediately sat down, and after passing silence to the rear, 
I asked one B.iker, a soldier, who was our best assistant, whether that 
was not a signal to the warriors, of our approach. He answered. 
No; and said it was the manner of a young fellow's calling a squaw, 
after he had done his dance, who, accordingly kindled a fire, cleaned 
his gim and shot it off, before he went to sleep. 

All iiiis time, we were obliged to lay (juiet and hush, till the moon 
was faintly set. Immediately after, a number of fires appeared in 
different parts of the corn field, by which. Baker said, the Indians lay, 
the night being warm, and that these fires would immediately be out, 
as they were only designed to disperse the gnats. 

i«;,5By this lime it was break of day, and the men having marched thir- 
ty miles, were mostly asleep ; the line being long, the three companies 
of the rear were nnt yet brought over the last precipice. For these, 
some proper hands were immediately dispatched, and the weary soldiers 
being roused to their feet, a proper number under sundry officers were 
ordered to take the end of the hill, at which we then lay, and march 
along the top of the said hill, at least one hundred perches, and so 
much farther, it then being daylight, as would carry them opposite 
the upper part, or at least the body of the town, for the lower part 
thereof, and the cornfield; presuming the warriors were there, I kept 
rather the larger number of the men, promising to postpone the at- 
tack in that part, for eighteen or twenty minutes, until the detachment 
along the hill shou'd have time to advance to the place assigned them. 
In doing of which they were a little unfortunate. 

The time being elapsed, the attack was begun in the cornfield, and 
the men with all expedition possible, dispateheH through the several 
parts thereof. A pariy being also dispatched to the houses which were 
then discovered by the light of the day. Captain Jacobs immediately 
then gave the war-whoop, and with sundry other Indians, as the Eng- 
lish prisoners afterwards told us, cried, "The white men were at last 
come, they wouid then have scalps enough ;" but at the same lime or- 
dered their squaws and children to flee to the woods. 

Our men, with great earnestness, passed through and fired in the 
cornfield, where they had several returns trom the enemy, as they also 
had from tne opposite side of the river. Presently alter, a brisk fire 
began among the houses, which from the house of Captain Jacobs, 
was returned with a great deal of resolution ; to which place I iirmr- 
dialely repaired, and found that from the advantages from the house 
and port holes, sundry of our people were wounded, and some killed; 
and finding that returning the fire upon the house was effectual, order- 
ed the contiguous houses to be set on fire, which was performed^wilh 

49* 



590 HISTORY OF CAMBRIA COUNTY. 

a great deal of activity — the Indians always firing whenever an object 
presented itself, and seldom missed of wounding or killing some of 
our people ; from which house, in moving about and giving the neces- 
sary directions, I received a wound wiih a large musket ball, in the 
shoulder. Sundry persons during the action, were ordered to tell ihe 
Indians to surrender themselves prisoners, but one Indian in particu- 
lar, answered and said, " He was a man, and would not be a prison. ^ 
er." Upon which he was told, in Indian, he would be burnt. To this 
he answered he did not care, for he would kill four or five before he 
did; and had we not desisted from exposing ourselves, they would 
have killed a great many more — they having a number of loaded guns 
there. As the fire began to approach, and ihe smoke grew thick, one 
of the Indian fellows, to show his manhood, began to sing. A squaw 
in the same house, and at the same time, was heard to cry and make 
a noise, but for so doing, was severely rebuked by (he men ; but by 
and by, the fire being too hot for them, two Indian fellows and a squaw 
sprung out and made for ihe cornfield, who wete immediately shot 
down by our people; then surrounding the houses it was thought 
Capt. Jacobs tumbled himself out at the garret or cock-loft window, 
at which he was shot — our prisoners offered to be qualified to the 
powder horn and pouch there taken off him, which they say he 
had lately got from a French officer in exchange for Lieutenant Arm- 
strong's boots, which he carried from Fort Granville, where the Lieu- 
tenant was killed. The same prisoners say they are perfecly assur- 
ed of his scalp, as no other Indians there wore their hair in the same 
manner. They also say they know his squaw's scalp by a particular 
bob; and also know the scalp of a young Indian, called the Kiiig's son. 
Before this time. Captain Hugh Mercer, who early in the action was 
wounded in the arm, had been taken to the top of the hill above the 
town, to where a number of the men and some of the officers were 
gathered ; from whence they had discovered some Indians cross the 
river and taken the bill, with an intention, they thoughi, to surround 
us and cut us off. from whom I had sundry pressing messages to leave 
the house and retreat to the hill, or we shonid all be cut off; but to 
this, I could by no means consent, until all the houses were set on 
fire; though our spreading upon the hill appeared very necessary, 
yet did it prevent our researches of the cornfield and river side, by 
■which means sundry scalps were left behind, and doubtless some 
squaws, children, and English prisoners, that otherwise might have 
been got. 

During the burning of the houses, which were nearly thirty in num- 
ber, we were agreeably entertained with a quick succession of charg- 
ed guns gradually firing ofl^, as they were reached by the fire; but 
more so with the vast explosion of sundry baes and large kegs of gun- 
powder, wherewith almost every house abounded. The prisoners af- 
terwards informing, that the Indians had frequently said, they had a 
sufficient stock of ammunition for ten years to war with the English. — 
With the roof of Capt. Jacob's house, where the powder blew up, 
was thrown the leg and ihigh of an Indian, with a child of three or 
four years old, such a height that they appeared as nothing, and fell 
into the adjacent corn field. 

There was also a great quantity of goods burnt, which the Indiani 
had received but ten days before from the French^ 



HISTORY OP CAMBRIA COUNTY. 591 

By this time I had proceeded to the hill to have my wouni tied up, 
and the blood stopped, where the prisoners, who in the mornin" had 
come to our people informed me that, that very day two Batteaux of 
French men, with a large party of Driawares and French Indians 
were to join Capt. Jacobs, at Kittanning, and to set out early next 
morning to take Fort Shirley, or as they called it George Croghan's Fort, 
and that twenty-four warriors, who had lately come to town, were sent 
out before them the evening before, for what purpose they did not 
know, whether to prepare meat, to spy the fort, or to make an attack 
upon some of our back inhabitants. 

Soon alter, upon a little reflection, we were convinced these war- 
riors were all at the fire, we had discovered, but the night before, and 
began to doubt the fate of Lieut. Hogg and his party. From this in- 
telligence of the prisoners, our provisions being scaffolded some thirty 
miles back, except what were in the men's haversacks which were left 
with the horses and blankets with Lieut. Hogg and his party, and a 
number of wounded people then on hand, by the advice of the officers 
it was thought imprudent then to wait for the cutting down o( the 
corn field, (which was before designed) but immediately to collect 
our wounded and force our march back, in the best manner we could, 
which we did by collecting a few Indian horses to carry off our 
wounded. 

From the apprehensions of being waylaid and surrounded, (espe- 
cially hy some of the woodsmen) it was difficult to keep the men to- 
gether ; our march for sundry miles, not succeeding two miles an 
hour — which apprehensions were heightened by the attempt of a few 
Indians, who for sometime after the march, fired upon each wing, and 
then ran off, from whom we received no other damage but one of our 
men being wounded through both legs. Capt. Mercer being wounded 
was induced, as we have reason to believe, by some of his men, to 
leave the main body with his Ensign, John Scott, and ten or twelve 
men, they being heard tell him that we were in great danger, and that 
thev could take him into the road a nigh way, is probaby lost, there 
being yet no account of him, and most of the men have come in. A de- 
tachment was sent back to bring him in, but could not find him ; and up- 
on the return of the detachment it was generally reported he was seen 
•with the above number of men take a different road. 

Upon onr return to the place where the Indian fire had been discov- 
ered the night before, we met with a sergeant of Capt. Mercer's com- 
pany, and two or three others of his men, who had deserted us that 
morning immediately after the action at Kittanning. These men on 
running away, had met Lieut. Hoss:, who lay wounded in two differ- 
ent parts of his body, by the road side. He there told them of the 
fatal mistake of the pilot, who had assured us there were but three 
Indians at the most at the fire place, but when he came to attack them 
that morning, according to orders, he found a number considerably 
superior to his, and believes they killed or mortally wounded three of 
them at the first fire. After which a warm engagement began, and 
continued for about an hour, when three of his best men were killed, 
and himself twice wounded, the residue fleeing off— he was obliged 
to squat in a thicket, where he might have lain securely until the 
main body had come up, if this cowardly sergeant, and others that fled 
with him, had not taken him away. 



592 HISTORY OF CAMBRIA COUNTY. 

They had marched but a short space when four Indians appeared, 
on which these deserters be^an to flee. The Lieut, then, notwiihstand- 
ing his wounds, as a brave soldier, urging ihem to stand and fight, 
which they all refused. The Indians pursued, killing one man, and 
wounding Lieutenant a third tune in the belly, of which he died in a 
few hour>; but he having sone time before been put on horseback, 
rode some miles from the place of action ; but this last attack of the 
Indians upon Lieut. H02:? and the deserters, was by the before men- 
tioned sergeant represented to us in quite a diffVrent light: he telling 
us that there were a far larger number of the Indians there than ap- 
peared to them, and that he and ihe men had fought five rounds. — 
That he had there seen the Lieutenant and sundry others killed and 
scalped, and had also discovered a number of Indians throwing them- 
selves before us, and insinuated a great deal of such stuff as threw us 
into much confusion. So that the oflicers had a great deal to do to 
keep the men together, but could not prevail with them to collect 
what horses and other bagcage the Indians had left, after their conquest 
of Ijieut. Hogg and the partv under his command in the morning, ex- 
cept a few of the horses, which some of the bravest of the men were 
prevailed on to collect. So that from the mistake of the pilot who 
who spied the Indians at the fire, and the cowardice of the said ser- 
geant, and other deserters, we have sustained a considerable loss of 
our horses and baggage. 

It is impossible to ascertain the exact number of the enemy killed 
in the action, as some were destroyed by fire, and others in different 
parts of the cornfield ; but upon a moderate computation, it is gener- 
ally believed there cannot be less than thirty or forty killed and mor- 
tally wounded, as much blood was found in sundry parts of the corn 
field, and Indians seen in several places crawl into the woods on hands 
and feet, whom the soldiers, in pursuit of others, then overlooked, ex- 
pecting to find and scalp them afterwards, and also several killed and 
wounded in crossing the river. 

On beginning our march back, we had about a dozen of scalps, 
and eleven English prisoners, but now find that four or five of the 
scalps are missing; part of which were lost on the road and part in 
possession of the men with Capt. Mercer, separated from the main 
body, with whom also went four prisoners ; the other seven being 
now at this place, where we arrived on Sunday night, not being attack- 
ed through our whole march by the eneni}', though we expected it ev- 
ery day. Upon the whole, had our pilots understood the situation of 
the town, and the paths leading to it, so as to have posted us at a con- 
venient place, where the disposition of the men and the duly assign- 
ed them could have been performed with greater advantage, we had, 
by Divine assistance, destroyed a much greater number of the en- 
emy, recovered more prisoners and sustained less damage, than what 
we at present have. But the advantage gained over these, our com- 
mon enemies, is far from being satisfactory to us, yet must we not 
despise the smallest degree of success that God is pleased to give, 
especially at a time when the attempts of our enemies have been so 
prevalent and successful. I am sure there was the greatest inclina- 
tion to do more, had it been in our power, as the officers and most of 
the soldiers, throughout the whole action, exerted themselves with as 
niuch activity and resolution as could possibly be expected. 



HISTORY OF aaM««SET COUNTY. 593 

Our prisoners inform us the Indians have for some time past talked 
of fortifying at the Kiitanning and cither towns. That the number of 
French at Fort Du Quesne is about four hundred. That the princi- 
pal part of their provisions came up the river, from the Mississippi ; 
and that in the three other forts, which the French have on the Ohio, 
there are not more men, taken together, than what there are at Fort 
Du Quesne. 

I hope as soon as possible to receive your Honor's instructions 
with regard to the distributions or stationing of the sundry companies 
in this battallion ; and as a number of men are now wanting in each 
of the companies, whether or no they should be immediately recruit- 
ed, and if the sundry officers are to recruit, that money be speedily 
sent for that purpose. 

I beg the favor of your Honor, as soon as possible to furnish Gov- 
ernor Morris with a copy of this letter, and the gentlemen commis- 
sioners for the Province another, as my present indisposition neither 
admits me to write, or dictate anv more at this time. 

In case a quantity of ammunition is not already sent to Carlisle, it 
should be sent as soon as possible; and also, if the companies are 
to be recruited and completed, there must be an immediate supply of 
about three hundred blankets, as there have been a great many lost 
in the present expedition. Enclosed is a list of the killed, wound- 
ed and missing of the several companies. I expect to get to Carlisle 
in about four days. 

Yours, «&c., JOHN ARMSTRONG. 

To Hen. W. Dentstt. 

A list of the names of persons killed, wounded and missing, out 
of the several companies employed in the late expedition against Kit- 
tanning : — Of Lieut. Col. John Ar nstrong's Company — Thomas Pow- 
er, and John McCormick, killed ; Lieut. Col. Armstrong, James Car- 
ruthers, James Strickland, and Thomas Foster wounded. Of Capt. 
Hamilton's Compai.y — John Kelly, killed. Of Capt. Mercer'sCompa- 
ny — John Baker, John McCartney, Patrick Mullen, Cornelius McGin- 
nes, Theophilus Thompson, Dennis Kilpatrick and Bryan Carrigan, 
killed; Richard Fitzgibbens, wounded ; Capt. Hugh Mercer,* Ensign 

John Scott, Emanuel Minshey, John Taylor, John , Francis 

Philips, Robert Morrow, Thomas Burk, and Philip Pendergrass, miss- 
ing. Of Capt. Armstrong's Company — Lieut. James Hogg. James 
Anderson, Holdcraft Stringer, Edward O'Brians, James Higgins. John 
Lasson, killed; William Findley, Robert Robinson, John Ferral, 
Thomas Camplin, Charles O'Neal, wounded; John Lewis, William 
Hunter, William Baker, George Appleby, Anthony Grissy, Thomas 
Swan, missing. Of Capt. Ward's Company — William- Welsh, killed; 
Ephraim Bratton, wounded; Patrick Myers, Lawrence Donnahow 
and Samuel Chambers, missing. Of Capt. Potter's Ccmpany— En- 
sign James Potter, and Andrew Douglass wounded. Of the Revd. 
Captain Steel'sf Company — Terrcnce Canuaberry, missing. Total: 
killed, seventeen; wounded, thirteen ; missing, nineteen. j 

* Believed to be General Mercer, of the United States Army, who 
died near Princeton, January 12, 1777. — Haz. Reg. I., 366. 

f During the French and Indian wars, the limes were such, in the 
Pennsylvania, especially along the frontier settlements, that the ser- 



594 HISTORY OF CAMBRIA COUNTY. 

A list of English prisoners retaken from the Indians at Kittanning. 
— Ann McCord, wife of John McCord, taken at McCord's Fort ia 
Conogocheagup ; Martha Thorn, about seven years old, taken at the 
same place ; Barbara Hicks, taken at Conollavvays ; Catharine Smith, 
a German child, taken near Shamokin ; Margaret Hood, taken near 
the miiuth of Conng(icheas;ue, in Maryland; Thomas Giriy, taken at 
Fort Granville; Sarah Kelly, taken near Winchester, in Virginia; be- 
sides one woman and a boy, and two little girls, who with Captain 
Mercer and Ensign Scott, separated from ihe main body, as we began 
our March from Kittanning, who are not yet come in. 

For the signal success of Col. John Armstrong, in reducing Kittan- 
ing, the Corporation of the city of Philadelphia, voted him and his gal- 
lant officers their thanks, and conferred upon them other favors, as 
may be seen from the following extracts, from the minutes of the Com- 
mon Council : 

October 5, 1756 — It being proposed that the Board should give some 
public testimony ot their regard and estee/n for Col. Armstrong and 
the other officers concerned in the late expedition against the Indians 
at Kittanning, and the courage and conduct shown by them on that 
occasion, and also contribute lo the relief of the widows and children 
of those who lost their lives in that expedition. Resolved, That this 
board will g^ive the sum of one hundred and fifty pounds out of their 
stock in the treasurer's hands, to be paid out in pieces of plaie, swords, 
or other things suitable for presents to the said officers and towards 
the relief of the said widows and children. 

The following is a description of the medal sent to Col. Armstrong: 

Occasion. In honor of the late Colonel Armsfrong of Carlisle, 
Pennsylvania, fi)r destroying Kittanning Indian towns. 

Device. An officer followed by two soldiers : the officer pointing to 
a soldier shooting from behind a tree, and pn Indian prostrate before 
him. In the back ground, Indian houses are seen in flames. 

vices of all who could shoulder a gun or handle a defensive weapon, 
were demanded. Clergymen ot several denominations had accepted 
of commissions, while others, from their pulpits, animated the people 
to manfully resist the hostile foe. The Rev. Steel, of Cumberland, 
the Rev. Elder, of Lancaster, (now Dauphin), the Rev'd Jnhn Ctmrad 
Bucher, a grandfather cf Judge Buc.her, of Harrisburg; — the first- 
named was a captain, and two last Cohmels ; during this war Rev'd 
Richard Peters, of Philadelphia, and Rev'd Barton of York county, 
Episcopal Clergyman, were alike active in the service of their coun- 
try. 

The Rev'd Peters, writiiig from Philadelphia, May 3d 1758, to Mr. 
Stevenson, of York, says: "The Ministers should be desired, in dif- 
ferent and proper parts of the country, and at proper distances as 
their congregations may be seated, to afpoint meetings, and animate 
the people lo raise levees with all possible dispatch." Stevenson, in 
answer to Mr. Peters, writes, York, May 2I.st: "The Rev. Craddock 
gave nie the pleasure of a visit, and preached an excellent xunr sermon 
from Lishy's pulpit, on Friday last, in the hearing of the Rev'd Bar- 
ton, Bay and Lishy ; he went with Mr. Barton yesterday; and is to 
deliver another sermon to the same purpose to-day, from Mr. Barton's 
pulpit," 



HISTORY OF CAMBRIA COUNTY. 595 

Legend. Kittanning destroyed by Colonel Armstrong, September, 
1758. 

Reverse. Device — The arms of the Corporation of Philadelphia. — 
These consisted of four devices; on the right hand a ship under full 
sail : on the lefi, a pair of scales, equally balanced in the right, above 
the ship, a wheat sheaf: in the left, two hands locked. 

Legend. The gift of the Corporation of the City ot Philadelphia. 

To Colonel Johpt Aiimstong. Sin: — The corporation of the city 
of Philadelphia greatly approve of your conduct and public spirit in 
the late expedition against the town of Kiitanning, and are highly 
pleased with the proofs of courage and personal bravery given by 
you, and the officers under your command, in demolishing ot that 
place. I am therefore ordered to return you and them the thanks of 
the board f r the eminent service you have thereby done your coun- 
try. I am also ordered by the corporation to present you, out of their 
small public stock, with a piece of plate and silver medal, and each 
of your officers with a medal and a small sum of money to be dispo- 
sed of in a manner most agreeable to them ; which the board desire 
you will accept as a testimony of the regard they have for your merit. 
Signed by order, 

Attwood Shutb, Mayor. 

January 5, 1757. 
To the Mayor, Recorder, Alderman, and Common Council of the Cor- 
poration of the City of Philadelphia. 

Gentlemen — Your favor of the 5ih instant, together with the medals 
and other genteel presents made to the officers of my battalion by the 
Corporation o( the City of Philadelphia, I had the pleasure to receive 
by Captain George Armstrong. 

The officers employed in the Kittanning expedition, have been made 
acquainted with the distinguished honor you have done them, and de- 
sire to join with me in acknowledging it in the most public manner. 
The kind acceptance of our past services by the Corporation, gives 
us the highest pleasure and furnishes us a fresh motive for exerting 
ourselves on every future occasion for the benefit of his Majesty's 
service in general, and in defence of his province in particular. In 
behalf of the officers ot my battalion, I have the honor to be, gentle- 
men, 

Your most obedient and obliged humble servant, 

John Armstrong. 

Carlisle, January 24, 1757. 

The destruction of this town and its inhabitants, was a severe 
stroke on the Indians. This was the first attempt to assail them in 
their own towns, and they had hitherto fancied themselves perfectly 
secure from the approach of the inhabitants on this side of the moun- 
tains. Though goaded on by the French, and impelled by a thirst of 
vengeance to retaliate the fatal blow inflicted upon their "flesh and 
blood," they would not venture, for some time, to leave their wigwams 
era masse to assault the frontier settlement, lest they might again meet 
with a signal overthrow. Such of them as belonged to Kittanning 
and had escaped the carnage, refused to settle again on the east of 
Fort Du Quesne, and very wisely resolved to place that fortress and 
the French garrison between them and the English.* 

• Gordon's His. Pa., 345. 



HISTORY OF INDIANA COUNTY. 



CHAPTER XLVIII. 



INDIANA COUNTY. 



Indiana 'county erected— organized for judicial purposes — Limits 
and extent — Surface of the country — Salt water discovered— Gen- 
eral Statistics of 1840 — Streams — Public improvements — Towns: 
Indiana, the county town — Blairsville, Saltzburg, Armagh, George- 
viile, Home, Lewisville, Mechanicsburg, Nicholsburg, Shelacto, 
Strongstown, &c — Synopsis of population of townships and boroughs 
— Inhabitants variously employed — Conrad Weiser's mission and 
Journal— First settlers west of the Allegheny mountains — A Red- 
stone and Turkey foot— Steel and others sent thither in 1768, &c — 
Early history, and first settlers in Indiana county — Moral and religi- 
ous character of inhabitants. 

Indiana count r was erected by an act passed March 
30th, 1803, The act defines the boundaries as follows : 
"That those parts of the counties of V\ estmoreland and 
Lycoming, inckid<^d within the following boundaries, viz: 
Beginning at the corner of Arnistroiig county on the Kis- 
kiminetas river, thence up said river to the mouth of Co- 
nemaugh river ; thence up said river to the hne of Som- 
erset county; thence a straight Une to the Canoe-place on 
the west branch of the Susquehanna; thence a north 
course along Potter's district line, twelve miles; thence a 
due west course to Armstrong's comity line; thence along 
said line to the place of beginning." 

The same act, authorizing the erection of the county, 
William Jack, James Parr, and John Pomroy of West- 
moreland county, were appointed trustees for the county, 
with full authority to receive proposals, in writing, from 



HISTORY OF INDIANA COUNTY. 



597 



-any person or persons, or any bodies corporate or politic, 
for the granting or coiivf.yance ol any lands within the 
counties respective y, and within the limits of the county 
of Indiana, for fixing the place of holding the courts of 
justice The trustees thus appointed perCormed the duties 
which had been enjoined on them, and made report tiierof 
to the IfiijisLiture, whereupon to secure to the county the 
benefits that were inti-ndtd. an a( t was passed March 
25th, 1^05, that Charles Campbell, Randel Loughlin and 
John Wilson, wen- appointed trustees, and were required 
to survey or cause to he surveyed two hundred and fiity 
acres <»f laml, granted for the use of the county by George 
Clyrner, and to lay out a lot or lots not exceeding four 
acres whereupon to erect the public buildings, and the 
residue into town lots, of certain prescribed dimensions 
and certain streets, &c., and to sell them by public auci ion, 
upon due notire, and transmit a map of the sume to the 
secretary of Hie commonwealth; the proceeds thereof to 
be ap;ilied to the erection of a court house and other ne- 
cessary public buildings. 

Indiana conn y was organized for judicial purposes, by 
an aet passed March 1 0th, 1>06 

Indiana has Jefferson on the north, Clearfie'd and Cam- 
bria on the east, Westmoreland on the south, and Arm- 
strong on the west. Length 33 miles; breadth 23 miles; 
area 770 square miles Population in 1810,6,214; in 
1820, 1,882; in 1830, 14,252; in 'l 840, 20,789. 

"The surface of the country is generallv uneven and 
hilly, like that of most of the western counties. In the 
southeast are the noithern terminations of the two moun- 
tain ranges called L- urel hill and Chestnut ridge, which 
here appear of a diminished elevation, and break into a 
series of irregular ridges; the rocks next below the coal 
series have been, as geoligists say, upheaved to the surface 
on an axis of elevaiion, and appear on their summit and 
alng their sides; the coal bearing strata resting upon 
them near the base, or sometimes extending some distance 
up their acclivities. These lower strata of the coal mea- 
sures crop out abundantly along the ravines near the base 
of the mountain ridges, descending on each side toward 
the middle of the basin there anticlinal elevations, where 
they are deeply covered by superincumbent strata. At 

50 



598 



HISTORY OF INDIANA COUNTY. 



Lockport, on the Conenjaugb, however, (he river cuts so 
deeply across the basin as io expose all the lower strata 
down to the sandstoue, which lonns the ftuor ol the coal 
measures. Asceiidmg (h.ni the water level, towards the 
summit of tlie hill ou the north side of the rivei, five suc- 
cessive beds of coal are exposed, separated by intervening 
strata of stndstone, shale, limestom-, and iron ore. In the 
deep ravine of Black-lick creek, neaily similar exposures 
may be observed. v\ est of Chestnut ridge, ti.e lower coal 
beds are again seen along Conemaugh, and in the deep 
ravines of 'I'wo-lick and Yellow creeks, passmg deeply 
beneath the high grounds around the town of Indiana. 
Further westward, on Crooked creek, and also norihwest 
on the Mahoning, coal beds appear whicn have a higher 
position in the seri.s " 

The soil is loam, varied by commixture with sand, 
gravel and clay, and wlure no. tuorougli is pretty fertile, 
producing fair crops of wheat, oats, grass, &.c. In the 
vallies wheri^ thcboil js blended with vegetable mould in 
various proportions, it produces abundantly. Hor.^es, cat- 
tle and sheep are raised in considerable numbers by the 
farmers, and suld to drovers, who drive them to the east- 
ern markets. 

Along the Conemaugh rivi r in the southern part of the 
county, sail water is obiained by boring to a depth of 
from 500 lo 800 feet, fro n wlncli salt is manufactured. — 
Seven'y thousand bui>hels are annu.Uly made in this 
county. 

A writer, a traveller whose letters appeared in Haz- 
ard's Register for 1831, says: — 

The existence of s dt water in this section (on the Con- 
em i ugh) was indicated by tiie oozng of water, slightly 
brackish, through the fissures of tne ri)( k. These places 
are called Licks, from the fact of deer and other animals 
resortnig to them, to dr.nk tlie w,it' r and lick the mud or 
rocks, though the salt is sc ircely perceptible, to the human 
tasie. Hence ^^ watching a Lick" is a phrase olten heard 
among sportsaien in t.iat part of the country ; and it is 
common to see a kind of sc itf.ild or nest among the branch- 
es of a neighboring tree, in which the gunner awaits the 
approach of the un-.usi)ecting animal to its favorite lick. 
Many deer are killed in this ma.iuer. 



HISTORY OF INDIANA COUNTY. 



599 



About the year 1813, when, salt, in consequence of the 
war, was extravagantly high, and thf enterprising gentle- 
man, Mr. William .lohnston, drt^rmined to perforate the 
rock and ascertain whether there was not some valuable 
fountain from where all these oozing^ issued. He com- 
menced operations on the bank of (onemaugh, near the 
mouth of Loyalhanna, and persevered until he had reach- 
ed the depih of 450 feet, througli various strata of hard 
rocks, when he struck an abundant fountnin, strongly im- 
pregnated with salt. He immediately proceeded to tub- 
ing the perforation to exc'ude the fresh water, erecting 
furnaces, pans and other fixtures, and was soon in the full 
tide of successful experiment, making about thirty bushels 
per day, all of which was eagerly purchased at a high 
price. 

Mr. Johnston's success induced many others to embark 
in the same business, most of whom were successful — 
Very soon the hitherto silent and solitary banks ol this 
river were all bustle, life, and enterprise. Well after well 
was sunk; competition ran liigh, and brought the 
price of the ar'icte lower aiid lower, until it was re- 
duced to one dollar per barrel. This was too low Some 
establishments were abandoned, others were carried on 
amidst every difficulty. However, a leaction which was 
naturalllv expected, at last took place ; the price was fixed 
at two dollars per barrel, which afforded a fair profit.—. 
The business regained its former spint, and the quantity 
manufactured rapiJIy increased, and is sti'l increasing. 

The wells or perforations are from 300 to 600 feet in 
depth, and about two and a half or three inches in diam- 
eter. They are made wiih a comm'^n stone chisel attach- 
ed (.> poles. The operation is generally performed by hand, 
by striking the chisel forcibly upon the bottom. It is a 
tedious, laborious, and expensive, operation ; often requir- 
ing the labor of two men for more than a year. When 
waiir of the required strength and in sufficient quantity 
is o'ltained, the well is tubed to exclude the fr<sh water, 
and a pump inserted, which Ibrnierly was worked by 
horse power, but now iiiore commonly by a smail steam 
engine. The water is first boiled in large square sheet- 
iron pans, un'il it attains a strength but little short of crys- 
tallizdijuH ; from these pans it is transferred to large cis- 



600 



HISTORY OF INDIANA COUNTY. 



terns, in which the sediment is Hisposifed ; thence, puri- 
fied, it is put into large kettles placed in the rear ol t' e 
pans, in which it soon heromes rrystaUized without any 
furth«'r attention- I have ofi'-n watched the heautilul 
and curious process of crystallization. Spear after spear^ 
of the most dehcate structure and fantnstic shape, will 
dart into existence as if by magic ; tiie process becomes 
more and more rapid every moment; priseiitly it io<'ks 
c nfused and muddy, then, ahnost, helore he is aware, 
the spectator finds his eyes fixed upon a kettle of salt. 

Sufficient water is drawn from (Mie well to supply from 
three to five pans, making fmni fifteen to twenty barrels 
daily. About thirty gallons are usually evaporati'd to 
every bushel. Coal is exclusively used as the fuel, na- 
ture having provided it in exhaustless abundance, and as 
convenient to the works as conid he desired At many 
of them it is thrown from the mouth of the pit into shntes 
through which it descends by its own gravity to the side 
of the furnaces. 

Copperas is manufactured to some extent in Mercer 
county. On Blacklick creek, in Indiana coimty, a few 
miles from Blairsville, there is evidence of an abundant 
source of this article, though there is no regular manu- 
facture of it. 

According to the census of 1840, there was only one 
furnace in this county, producing sO tons of cast iron ; 
one forge, produced 30 tons of bar iron, l.so tons of fuel 
consumed in the manufacturing of iron; 19 men em- 
ployed, including mining in the business, with a capital of 
$18,000. There were 48:J,2'<0 bush« Is of bituminous 
coal mined by 46 laborers; 70,890 bushels of salt man- 
ufactured, by 27 men, with a capital o( $20,500. There 
were in the county 6,524 horses and mules, 18,199 neat 
cattle, 35,894 sheep ; 24,377 swine ; poultry of all kinds 
valued at $S,34.i ; 195,254 bushels ol wheat raised ; 297 
of barley; 356,046 of oats; 78,021 of rye ; 80,806 of 
buckwheat; 171,018 of corn ; 51,193 pounds of wool; 
605 pounds of hops; 2,693 pounds of wax; 103,807 
bushels of potatoes; 25,193 tons of hay; 3^ tons of flax ; 
12,282 pounds of maple sugar manufactured ; the value 
of the products of the dairy $33,739; value of the pro- 
ducts of the orchard $5,908 ; of home made or family 



HISTORY OF INDIANA COUNTY. 



601 



goods S30,053. There were three commission ware- 
houses, with a capital investtd of $7,500. Retail dry- 
goods, grocery and otlicr stores 69, with a capital of $171,- 
116. Value of machinery maniiracturcd $5,650. Value 
of biick and lime mannfactuied $2,4 1 5, nineteen men 
em: loyed in it. There were 5 lulling mills and 5 woollen 
factori«'S, value of gonds manufaciured $2,700, sixteen 
persons employed, capital invested $7,250. Value of 
hats and caps mamilactured $1 ,990, six persons < mployed, 
with a capital of $2,405 Twenty-six tainieries, tanned 
l,-739 sides of sole leather and .3,472 of up|:)er, employ- 
ed 41 men, with a capital of $ix,905. Seven distilleries 
produced 5,750 galloi s; one brewery produced 1,400 gal- 
lons of beer, ten men employed in maniilacturing distil- 
led and fermented liquors, with ?. capital of $1,635. — 
Three printing offices, issuing each a weekly paper, 12 
printers employed, capial of all 3,200. Value ol car- 
riages and vvaijons manufactured $4,708. in which twenty 
men wen? employed, with a cipital of $2,952. Three 
flouring mills, manufaciured 2,750 barrels of flour. Fifty- 
one grist mills, seventy-lour s i w mills. 'I'htre were seven 
wooden houses built, 20 men employed thereat, the cost 
of C(»iistiuciing the buildinijs $^,050. The total capital 
hivested m manufacturers $1 19,474. 

This county is abundant y su| pli(id with streams afford- 
ing ample water power for mills f[ictories&c. The county 
is drain, d on the north east by the head waters of the 
west braneh of the Susquehanna river; on the sonth by 
Black-. ick creek, and its numerous branches, flowing 
into the Conemaugh at Blairsville ; on the south w< st by 
Ijjack-lick creek, also a tributary of Conemaugh, which 
itsell' Ibrms the southern boundary lino of the county sep- 
ar.iting it from Westmoreland. Two-lick and Yellow 
creeks unite their waters and run southward lo the Black- 
lick. Crooked creek rises by several br^nclies in the 
western part of the county, and pa>ses westward through 
Ariiistro'ig county t(j the .4llegheny riv'T. In the north 
is Vlahoiiing creek, rises on t e eastern border of Jeiferson 
county through which it flows into this county, passes 
through Araistrony c.unty, nd unites witli Allegheny 
river about ten miles a' ove Kittanning. 

The western division of the main line of Pennsylvania 
50* 



602 HISTORY OF INDIANA COUNTY. 

canal extends along the ^^'onemaiiwh river. t?iroughout t^e 
whole extent of the southern hoiiiidnry of this county, 
frequently opening into a series of slack water pools* in 
the river; greatly increasing the facilities of trade and 
transportation for the inhahituits : nine miles below 
Blairsville it passes through a tunnel eight hiux'red and 
seventeen feet long, and emerges upon a magniticent 
stone aqueduct across the Cnnem mgh. 

"To the traveller pass ng up the cinal, the view of the 
aqueduct, and the western entrance of the tunnel, with 
the river and the rugged nv initain above it, is exceedingly 
picturesque. Previous to the eonsiiuction of the canals, 
the Conemaugh was a rough im| etuous stream, of dan- 
gerous navigation.'* 

The northern turnpike from Harr-sbuig to Pittsburg, 
by way of Huntingdon, Ehensbur*;, HIairsville &o.. p;^.ss- 
es through the souiheastein p rt ; and the turn[)ike Jrom 
Ebensburg to Kitianning eriisses the C(.unty in a north- 
eastern direction, passinii thr ugh the town of Indiana. 
The other public roads aie generally passably good. 

Indiana, so named agreeably to a legislative act passed 
March 25tl), 1805, was laid out by ( harles Campbell, 
Randel Loughlin and John V\ il>on, by the legislature, on 
a tract of land granted for t e use of the county by George 
Clymer, and became tie ecuniy seai, after the conn y had 
been organized f 'I judicial |)urpoves,by act of lOih March, 
ISOe.t The town is handsomely situated on e evated 
ground, nearly m the centre of the county, on the turn- 
pike road from Ebensburg to Kittaimmg. It has been 
much increased within ihe lew past \ears. It contains 
the usual county bui.dinijs, sevend churches, an academy 
of stone, incorporated March 2.sth, IM'i, and lo which 
the state gave S^JOno 00. Population pwards ot 700. — 
" It is said theie are some traces ul an ancient aburigmal 
fortification three miles west of town." 

Blaiksville lies on the Conemauuh river on the south 
side of Black-lick creek, at its continence with the for- 

• Between J hnlnwn and the Allegheny river there are ten dams, 
and upwards of itt»Mii3' imlps ..i siHck waier ii;i vigaiiin on iheir penis. 
The length of thi- <';inal is 105 nines, the dtsceul by lockage 471 leet. 
Cost of canal $2 964 f R2 (0. 

fSmith's laws, iV, 225. 



ij 



HISTORY OF INDIANA COUNTY. 603 

mer stream, and on the northern turnpike, \0 miles from 
Pittsburg, an I 11 iVoih Indima. Ii was laid ou nearly 
thirty years ago, "and named after John Blair. Esq., of 
Blair's Gap, ihf. president of the Uohda\ sburi^ and Pitts- 
burg Turnpike Company. The town site oiigin;dly be- 
longed lo Mr. ("amp tell. The construction of the turn- 
pike fosi<'red ihe growth of the town, and a large hotel 
was er. cted to acconmiodate the travel. In 1^21 the no- 
ble bridge was tiirown acr^ ss the river l>y the lurnpike 
CO. It was of one span, 2U5 leet between the abutements, 
and is hui t on the Wernwao plan, suuilar to tlie one 
which was burnt down at Fairmount a tew years since. 
In M;irch, lH'.i5, the toaM was inc .rporated ;tsa borough; 
and in \S21 tar population was ascertained to be 500. — 
Fro. II th.s period to l."-..3» were the palmy days of Blairs- 
ville. Ill IS2S tiie western division of the canal was 
completed to t ds plaoi, and the eastern was advancing 
step by ste|) towards the mountains; the intermediate 
sections of ca .al and the railroad over the mountains 
wer.^ m progress but stif uiifin^s led. Th ■ carrying trade, 
therefo e, and the incrc^asing travel, were ol)liged to re- 
sort 10 the turnpike, ibis gave gre> t imp rtaiice to Blairs- 
ville as a depot, and the place was lull of bustle and 
prosperity. Lnmense hotels and warehouses were erect- 
ed, lour or five chiu'ches were built within three years, 
proper y in re ised in v, lue, and the hott;ls were swarm- 
ing with sp(Culaiors, engi leers, contractors, and forward- 
ing agents In 18.S4, t le commimic -tion was opened 
over the mountains, the use of the turnpike was to a great 
extent abandoned, and Me me chants and irn-keepers 
of BLii;sville were compelled to sit and see the trade 
"pass by on the other side." A reaction and dejires.sion 
of course ensued to some extent, bu' the enterprising citi- 
zens were only driven 'o their natural resources of tlie 
count y as a bJss of trade. A voy considerable quantity 
agricu.tural pro ucis are sold here, ihe surrounding fouii- 
try be. ng very product. ve. Quite a nuiiiber ot houses 
are largely eng ged in the pork b .siness. The town is 
improving with a gradua: and htalthy growth. Popula- 
tio.i in isiO, };yo I lie C: izens of ti.is place are said 
to be, widiout disparagement to other to^«'ns. remark ibly 
inted:geiit and iiospitai^ie. There are now live churche* 



604 HISTORY OF INDIANA COUNTY. 

in the place: a Presbyterian, Episcopal, Lutheran, Metho- 
dist, and Catholic." 

Saltzburg, so called from the numerous saltwr^rks in 
its vicinity, is a sm;ill village on the Coneniiugh riv^er ntid 
canal, in ihc soutliwpstern part of tli'- county, ten miles 
fiom IMairsville. and seventnei) trom Indiana. It contains 
about forty dwellings, st )res, taverns and a church. Pop- 
lation ill lS40, 335. 

Armagh, an old village, orig'inally settled by Irish, 
who named it after their favorite Armagh (a city of Ire- 
land in the province of Ulster, said to be founded by St. 
Patrick, A. D. 450) or Jirdmnghn, i. e. ^^ the field on a 
hill," is a small villaore thirteen miles east of Blairsville 
on the turnpike to lObensburg, near the western base of 
Laurel hill. Its location is elevated and healthy. There 
are several churches here. 

Georgeville, is a small village in Mahoning tow'ship, 
on the road from the county town to Je erson county, 15 
miles north rom the borou.h of Indiana. 

There are several other small villajrfs in the county — 
Home, Lewisvi/le, Mediant c^hurg, JVichulsburg, Shelocto, 
Strongstown, iffX., whose relative localities may be seen on 
the map of the county. 

The ff)l lowing Table exhibits at one view, the number 
of Townships anil Boroughs, with their j)Oj)ulation in Ib40. 

The inhabitants of this county were variously employed 
in 1840; twenty-five wt re employed in mining, 4,5^^6 in 
agriculture, 127 in commerce, 815 in manufactures and 
trades, five in navit^ation of the ocean. 104 in navigation of 
canals and rivers, 90 in the learned professions and engineer- 
ing There were still twenty-eight pensioners for revolu- 
tionary or military services living in this courity in 1840 — 
Ztbulon Doty, aged 85; Mott V\ ilkinson, 75; Alexander 
Campbell, 86; James Kellv, 71; James Kane, 80; John 
Montgomery, 80; Joseph Moorhead, 72; .lames Huston, 
82; Benjamm Williams, 65 ; lohn Ferguson, 76 ; George 
Bowers, 82; Henry Kiefer, 97 ; Cornelius M utcheson, 84 ; 
John Ewing. sen. 7'; Isifac .Vkeright, 56; Junius R. Bill, 
46; John Jamieson, 67 ; William McHenry, 70 ; John Lea- 
sure, 76 ; John^ Brady, 6ii-; Isaiah "Vanhorn, 80; Thomas 
Nei , 78; James Euing, 73; Jam«s Shields, IQJ ; John 
Brady, 64 j William White, 84; Job Pearcf, 88. 



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606 



HISTORY OF INDIANA COUNTY. 



Arrorflinij to Tiej^o, at an ant;!* in the eastern line of 
IndirtiiH, where it is join il hy the Mne se[ a nting CHinbria 
f oin Clenr field, is a celeb, ateil station caHtd the CAtrry- 
tree or Canoe-place, as the farthest point to which a canoe 
could he pushed up the Susquehanna. Fioin this point to 
Kiitannintr was anciently a Jamoi/s hidian pnth^ which is 
yet perceptible in several phices on the route. This was also 
the boundary ot one ol the purcha>es of lan»l liom the In- 
dians. 

The first important persoraire (a white man) that pen- 
etrated the trackless wilds of this region, was uridoul»tedly 
Conrad VVeiser ; and it is not iinproliaide that he may have 
travelleii " the famous Indian path." As Weisci's mission 
in 1748, to the Indians on the O lio, forms part of the early 
history of this (.ounty, the y;overrior 's itrstruction to him on 
this occasion, and Weisei's Journal, are here inserted at 
len<ith. 



Instructions to Conrari Weirder, Esq.* Inleipr e'er for the Prnvinre of Penn- 
sylvinia, from AiiJiony Pahnei, Picsideul of the Cou.inl. 

<^ir — This Gi'vernment haviii? pro p ised rhe Indians, who came here 
from Ohio in November last, (1747,) to send you to the n e.itly m the 

• CoNu \D Weiskh, whoRP n?me is iniitnarely associated wirh the 
(.•arlv hisicry o( PeniisylvHnia. and from which descended some of the 
most ushIuI men ol the cnmnry (ihe Miitilenherys,) was a native of 
Hf-renhersj. (ieiinany. He was hnrii Novembei 2 1, 16!i6. His (a'her, 
John CoiiiHc) \A ei>pr. wiih len ot liis children in-migraied to America, 
arrived ai Nev«' York in Jui e. 1710. and .-hmtlv alterward.s seiiled in 
Schoharie, where he was lepeaiedly visited I'y ^uasinant, a Chief of 
the VIoha" vk N^troti. At the uraenr solicit;iiion or Quaanani. Courad, 
the siibjeet of ihis nonce, went with the (y'hief to his cimntrv lo ac- 
quire a knowledap oi ihe Moh^iwk !angiiao;e. Uiiriiis thi.s stay he 
endured many hnrciship^ and snfT'^red f;ifat privations. — Having mas- 
tered the lansuaae he returntd to Ins faihei'.s hcusf and was accasion- 
ally enpliiyetl as inter(«reier. In 1729. then married, he came wirh 
his wi(e and five chiliiien, ro Peiiiis\ Iviiiiia, senled in Tulpehocken 
vallev— hicaied hall-a-mile eas>i of Uie pre-ent site of Woinelsdorf, 
Berks coiiniv. 

Cimrad Weiser. as occasir>n demanded it, acted in various capaci- 
ties, both private and piiblic. L)eieriiii:i«-d, on his arrixal in Pennsyl- 
vania, to spend the rem iiniiifj d.iys of his eventful li(e on his larm ; 
his lalentv however, s.m.ii attracted aitennon. Governor GurHon as 
early as 1731 fcinired his services in the fapaciiv of an in.eipreier. 
Soon after, arris GnveimT Thomas app< inied him a jnsiice of the 
peace ; and wneu tiie French war coiuuienctd Governor Morns com- 



HISTORY OF INDIANA COUNTY. 607 

iprine, and hav n^ provuipd a present of a considerable value, yoD 
are o iTuCr-t-d ihiiher with a'l ciiiivenir-ni d»'spaich Mr. G-^orge ('rt>g- 
han. itje Indimi tr.i 'er. wno is well R<qu nnted in the iinlian country 
and ihe bf'>l roads t Ohio, hH> u deriaketi this f.onvi.y ol ynu and the 
giMxN with his own men am) h<»r-e> at the public expense ; and as it 
caniKii be (ureseen how long ihe journey will lake hiin, nor what trou- 
ble in u' aiiend it so as to enttr into coiitracis betirehand with hinn, 
all afT.tiiH relating iherei . are entnelv lelt to you, wheiein we recom- 
mend all the friigalitv that can con^i-tenily with the nature i»l your 
buMness, the ireasurv being low aid a large sum expended in the 
purchase of the present, be pramced. 

As soon as you come to the place of general rendezvous, you are 
to noiiiv your arrival in a speech lo all the tribes, wherein you are 
l'> deal in generals, reserving all particular mailers lo your closing 
spp-^ch. 

You are to use the utmost diligence to acquire a perfect Knowledge 
of the nunber, situation, (li>posiii >n and strengih o( all the Indians io 
or near those parts, whetlier they be friends, neuirals or enemies, 
and he very particular in knowing the tf^mper and influence of the 
tnhes of [ndians who send deputies lo receive you; for by the know- 
ledge of these naMers vu are to regulate the distribution of the goods 
which are m he livided amongst ihem in as equal and jusi a man- 
ner as possible, ihat all in ly go away satisfied, and none receive the 
lea^t cause of disi^ust at any ipidue prelerence givn to others. 

You cannot he at a los> for <u itier (rom whence lo form your speech- 
es. 'I'.ie ancient eiimi'y o'J ih • Fiench lo the Indian Naiions, their 
perfidy upon all occasions, of which, if any reliance can be had on 
the articles ol news in ihe public papers, you may give some late 
instances in the <leath of Tahham a\tt. the Black Prince, who perish- 
ed III a jail ai M.iiitr»'al, and in ihe cruel treatment ot the Indians in 
general at Canada, who are confined to loathsome pri.-ons without 
proper < r whole-onie -.usittjuance. 

'I'h'' in ihiliiy of the French lo protect the Indians, or t*.. supply them 
with such necessaries as thev stand in need ol for their assistance. — 
The^e oh-erva:ions are what cann t but occur to you. You may fur- 
ther enlarge on the constant and anc lent triendship of the English, 
and ihfir reulmess at all iimfs lo assist them against the atie >.|its of 
the Frnch, who have ever b en for destroy! ig or enslaving them. 

Anl an ample field will be furnished to you in doing justice o ihis 
Province, wiiich has erer shown Ihe sieilest read ness to supply the 
Indians in the mo>t pressing necessii es, meniioninj the several val- 
uable presents m ide them trom time to line, pariicularly since the 
commencement of the present war, instancing the Go/ernop's pres- 
ents at Pnilailelphia. over and abi>ve the price of their lands in the 
year 1742; the lar;.'e presents ai Lancaster and Albany;— and then 
the present occasion will hear a particular enlargeineni: this Gov- 
ernment having no sooner heard of the distresi>es of the Indians, and 

missioned him as a Colonel of a regiment o'" volunteers of Beiks 
county. Hd snent m 're than a quarter of a century in the service of 
his Country. He closed his eveniful life July 1.3, 1760. For a detai'^d 
account of this truly great man, see Rupp'a Hatoiy of Eerkt County, 
pp. 195—222. 



608 HISTORY OF INDIANA COUNTV. 

that ahnn'ancp of farnihes and voung warriors had for ihe conTC* 
nienoe ^r huiting reiuuveil lo me waiers ol Oht'> and lake Krie, than 
they fie eriiimed t" send ihem a -inpp y ot g.xxis ami powiler. which, 
in ihis ti e ol ■^carciiy, thev cmild have fro n no o'her place. This 
tenierne-s fi'r those, who, oui ol everv Naii.n had c. me and fixed 
their liahiirtijon in these p: rt^. miisi ue'^d.s m.ike deep impie-sions on 
ther atfeciions, and espeCM Iv < n the minds ol their y. unu people, lo 
the a(lvaniaj>e ol the knidn^ss ol this Pri^vinre f^r all he Indians. 

By the neaiir s ^ul sisiing hnween his M ^ji'.-iy's s'hj-^cis and Ihe 
Indun Nations, tht\ are laid under the siri'n!^e>t obligations to pire 
earh tilitr ihr e. riiesi inifl igence o( whatever may alieci their per- 
sons ortlieir pri>peiti»»s. In discharue o' our dinv. you are ti> miorm 
the Indians ihai ihe man igernTH ol the war being coinniined to (he 
Governors ol New ¥■ tk and B sion. the operaiions ol this year are 
cono rted b\ lUem ; th.it tliey have received orders fion. his Majesty, 
exreediiis y favorablo to ihe Indians, and in pnrsu: me thereof, they 
will preset me the war at:;insi ttie Fiench and then adherents with 
the utmost viseor; that hi- Majf'-ty, in token ot his resri to ihe Indian 
Nati(M.s, has sei t a large present to the (iovemor ot Mew York, to be 
disiiibateil at Albany ; tint, iiiai as b»' their i.isiance iVi m this place, 
the Indians m Ohi, I and Lake Erie may bf* suppo e ' noi to receive 
miifii heietit irnrn t'l" A! )inv p e-ent. Tii- is an .iddnHuial consid- 
eration why this 2.)x er;nneiit cin.ose- to be kind to tnose Indians and 
assist ihein th? reaiier xetieii tn>-> are m distres-, hec^iuse ihey can- 
not, withii'ji extreme difficiiltv, gel supplies from o h>-r places. 

On the other hand, you are to use all means in von pi^wer to get 
from Uiem all kin<1 of inielligence, as lo what tne French are doing, 
or «lesi-n to d., m these par's, and inileed, in every oiner place. You 
are ikI to satisfy your-ell wit i generals ; hui to inlor n vur-elf, truly 
and fully v\ the real dipvi' t ion vt lh^s.e Indians, -and what dependence 
can t>e had on ihem lor the secui iiy lil ihis province and for ihe loial 
prevemii-n of all hosiiliiies wiihin nur li its. Ymi are o make par- 
ticuUr inquiry inio the number and s'ua ion i f the Ind a:i Nations. 
betttCrn these people's sett e Merns on i''*- O iio and me river Missis- 
sippi, and lo the west of lake Erie, s n e it is said, iheie are several 
Indian Nations wiihin ihe-e Units, and "-n ihe lakes Hur^n and Illi- 
nos. who are dis"hlige'l vciih the French, and might eas.iy be brought 
into the amniiy of the English. 

Yo 1 will see by the A-sem dy's answer lo t^e Councils message, a 
copy whereof will b^ given vii herewith, what seniinienis they enter- 
tain ahoul war; and, as they have the disposal of th? pi b ic money, 
it would he wrong lo urge the Inl.ans to war, sinr e n^ dependence 
could be had on the Asse'ohlv i" support the ■< m surh an underiaking ; 
and consequently, any eneourageineni of ihis kind w luld be lo bring 
them into a snare, and in the i-nd might pm e exiremt-iy hnrtful. — 
This Considered, nothing of the kind must he urgeil by y' u ; and if 
the Indians mention it themselves, you need not ne ex.dicii. Voa are 
to tell them that this point is n.'i in your ii.struciions. thai yur busi- 
ness WdS to make liicn a vis i, and to be iruiy informed of "leir situa- 
tion, and to bring them a valuable prese it, ihe most substantial mark 
that c?n be given > f the great JiflFecti >n -.ihich this province bears to 
their f. lend-, the Indian?; and i; they in-is' fur-her, vou if to tell 
ibe;n, that at their instance you will make faithful relation of every 



HISTORY OF INDIANA COUNTY. 



609 



thine eiven yon, by ihem. in charge to the government, and transmit 
to the Inrltans iheir rp^^olve-. But whatever y(:u do under this bead, 
as a gioil deal n ost be lefi to yuar discretir>(i and jodgment, on 
snch information as shall be given you, you are to lake special 
care not to dix-blige the Indians, or in any « :se diminish tbeir hearti- 
ness for hi> Maje.'iy's rau>e against ihe Frei.ch. 

Yog are lo make particular inqu ry inio the behavior of the Shawo- 
nese, «ince the <■ m pnc^rneni t>t the war, and in relation lo the coun- 
tenance they g ve o Pei'^r Chanier. It is proper lo tell yoa that 
they relented, ma-ie acknowleflgemenis to the government of their 
error, in being .-e'luce.1 by Peter Cnar.ier. and prayed they niight be 
permitted m return to their old town and be taken again as sincere 
penitent- into the lavir of the government; and though the govern- 
ment gave I lem assurance that all past misbehavior should be par- 
doned, on their sendin? deputies t<> Philadelphia, to acknowledge their 
faall, > et they contented ihemselves with loose letters by Indian traders, 
some of which have lieen delivered and som«« not ; bat had they all 
been deliveied, ihis was noi a becoming manner of addressing the 
governii em, nor rou'd they expect any thing from it. 

YoQ w II, iheretore. speak to them by themselves, and give them 
snch a quannii ot go. ds, ;,s opon their present temper, and the frank- 
ness of their submissioiis. you shall think ihey deserve. 

Given in Ciuncil, under mv hi»nd and the lesser "eal of the said 
Province, ft Philadelphia, the 22d day of Joi.e. Anno Domini. 1748. 

A^THO^Y PALMER. 

Prcm. Rec. L.p. 329—334. 



WEISERS JOCRx\AL, 174a 

THE JOCESAL OF C i.tRAD WEISER, ESQ., IRDIAlt INTEBPRETE*. 

Aogust 11th 1748— Set out from my house (Heidelberg township, 
Berks county. Pa ) and came to Jami-s Galbreath's that day, 20 milei 

August 12 h— Came to Geoigp Croghan's, 15 " 

Augu-t 13t'i — To Robert Dunning's, 20 " 

Aiiiiust I4tb — To '1 uscaiora Path, 30 " 

Augu-t 15lh and Itith— Lay hy. on account of the men com- 
ing back sick, and some other affairs 
hindering us. 

August Ibth— Crossed the Tuscarora Hill, and came to the 

sleeping place, called "The Black Log." 20 " 

August 18th— Had a great rain m the afternoon— came within 
Tw., mi es of the "Standing Stone," (Hun- 
tingdon county), 24 ' 

August I9th— We waveiled but twelve miles— were obliged 

to dry our thjrgs in t'.e afternoon, ° 12 '■ 

August 20th— Came to " F.ankstown." but saw no houses or 
cabin Here we overtook the goods, because 
four of Ge -ge Croghan's hands fell sick, 26 " 

August 21st— L;.y by. it ramlng all day 

AHgust22d— Lr ss.d the Alle-Leny hiiis, and came t© the 

''Clear Fields," |g tc 

51 



610 



HISTOHY OF INDIANA COUNTY. 



August 2??d— Came to the " Showonese Cabins," 34 <* 

August 24th — Found a dead man on the road who had killed 
hinnsel! by drinking too much whi>key. The 
place being very stony, we could not dig a 
grave to bury him He smelling very strung, 
we covered him with stones and wood and 
went on in our journey — came to the " Ten 
Mile Lick," 32 «* 

August 25th— Crossed " Kiskeminetoes Creek," and came to 

"Ohio"* that day, 26 "^ 

August 26th — Hired a canof— paid 1000 black wampum for 
the loan of it to 'Loes Town." Our horses 
being all tired, we went by water, aiid catne 
that night to a '' De aware Town" — the In- 
dians used us very kindly. 
Auprnst 27th — We .set otf again in the morning early — rainy weather- 
We dined in a " Seneka town," where an old Seneka woman reigns 
with great authority. We dined al her house, and ihey all used us 
very well al this and the last mentioned Delaware town. They received 
us by firing a great many guns, especially at this place. We saluted 
the lown by firing off four pair of pistols. Arrived that evening at 
"Logs Town" and saluied the town as belore. The Indians returned 
about one hundred guns. Great joy appeared in their countenances. 
From the place where we took water, i. e. from the " Old Showonese- 
town," commonly called "Chartier'siown" to </as place is above sixty 
miles by water, and but ihiriy-five or forty by land. 

The Iridian Council met this evening to shake hands with me, and 
to show their satisfaction at my safe arrival. I desired of them to 
send a couple of canoes to fetch down the goods from " Chartier's old 
town," where we had been obliged to leave them on account of our 
horses being all tired. I gave them a string of wampum, to enforce 
my request. 

August 28th — Lay still. 

August 29th — The Indians set off in their canoes to fetch the goods. 
1 expected the goods wtuld be all at " Chartier's old town," by the 
time the canoes would get there, as we met about twenty horses of 
George Croghan's at the " Showonese Cabbins," in order to fetch the 
goods, that were then at " Frankstown." 

This day, news came to town, that the Six Nations were on the 
point of declaring war against the French, for the reason that the 
French had imprisoned some of their Indian deputies. A council 
was held, and all the Indians made acquainted with the news; and, 
It was said, the Indian messenger was, by the way, to give all the 
Indians notice to make ready to fight the French. 

Tnis day my companions went to " Coscoske"-}- a large Indian town, 
about thirty miles off. 

August 30ih — I was at "Beaver Creek," an Indian town, eight 
miles off; chiefly Delnwtres ; the rest iV/o/iau;A;s, to have some belts of 
wampum made. This afternoon rainy weather set in, which lasted 

• Allegheny river, this river being then called "Ohio" — I. D. R. 

fThis town is placed in Hutcmn's map, on the west side of Big 
Beaver, about one mile below where the Shenango and Mahoning 
unite.~L D. R. 



HISTORY OF INDIANA COUNTT. 611 

above a week. Andrew Moatour came back from "Coscosky," with 
a mes-sage from the Indians there, to desire of me, thai the ensuing 
council might be held at their town. We both lodged at this town, at 
George Croghan's Trading house. 

August 3lst — Sent Andrew vlontour back to "Coscosky," with a 
string of wampum, to let the Indians then kntiw that it was an act of 
their own ; that ihe ensuing Council must be held at the "Logs Town;" 
thev had ordered it. so last spring, when George Croghan was up; and 
at the last treaty at Lancaster the Showonese and Twightwees had been 
told so, and they staid accordingly for the purpose; and both would 
be offended if the Council was to be held at "Coscosky;" besides 
my instructions bind me to "Logs Town," and could not further go 
without giving offence. 

September 1st— The Indians in "Logs Town," having heard of the 
messege from "Coscosky," sent for me to knew what I was resolved 
to do, and told me that the Indians at "Coscosky" were no more 
chiefs than themselves, that last spring they had nothing to eat, and 
expecting that they should have nothing to eat at our arrival ; ordered, 
that the Council should be held here. Now their corn is ripe, they 
want to remove the Council; but they ought to stand by their word: 
we have kept the Twightwees here from below on that account As 
I told them about the message that I had sent by Andrew Montour, 
they were content. 

September 2d — The rain continued. The Indians brought in a 
good deal of venison. 

September 3rd — Set up the Union Flag on a long pole. Treated all 
the company with a dram of rum. The King's health was drank by 
the Indians and white men. Towards night a great manv Indians 
arrived to attend the Council. There was a great firing on both sides. 
The strangers first saluted the town at a quarter of a mile distance; 
and at their entry the town's people returned the fire, also the English 
traders, of whom there were about twenty. At night, being very sick 
of the cholic, I got bled. 

September 4ih — was obliged to keep ray bed all day, being very 
weak. 

September .5ih — Found myself better. Scaioliady came to see me. I 
had some discourse with him about the ensuing Council. 

September 6ih — Had a council with the Wandats, otherwise called 
lonontddy-Hagas ; they made a fine speech to me, to make me welcome, 
and appeared on the whole very friendly. Rainy weather continued. 
September 7th — Being informed that the Wandats had a mind to go 
back again to the French, and having endeavored to take the Dela- 
wares with them to recommend them to the French, I sent Andrew 
Montour to Beaver Creek with a string of wampum to inform h'mself 
of the truth of the matter. They sent a string in answer to let me 
know they had no correspondence that way with the Wandats, and 
that the aforesaid report was false. 

September 8th — Had a council with the Chiefs of the Wandats- 
inquired into their number and what occasioned them to come away 
from the French; what correspondence tbey had with ihe Six Nations, 
and whetheror not they had ever any correspondence with the govern- 
ment ot New York. They informed me their coming away from the 
Flrecxib was because of the bard usage they received from them: that 



612 



HISTORY OF INDIANA COUNTY. 



they would always get their young: men to go to war apainst the ene' 
mies, and would use them as their own people, thai is, like slaves ; 
and their goods were so dear that ihev, the Indians, could not buy 
them. That there were one hundred fishiing men thai came over to 
join the English, seventy were left behind at another town, a good 
distance off, and they hoped ihey would tollow them ; and they had 
a very good corre>p(indence with the Six Nations for many years, and 
were one people with them; that they could wish the Six Nations 
would act more briskly against the French. Thai above tilty years 
ago they made a treaty of Friendship with the Governor of New York 
at Albany ; and they showed me a large belt of wampum they received 
there from the said Governor, as from the King of Great Britain. The 
beft was twenty-five yirains wide and two hundred and sixiy-five long, 
very curiously wrought. There were seven images of men holding 
one another by the hand. 

The first, signifyinp the Governor of New York; or, rather as they 
said, the King of Gre^i Britain. 
The second, 'he Mohawks. 
The third, the Oneidos. 
The fourth, the Cajngas. 
The fifth, the Onondasers. 
The sixth, the Senekas. 

The seventh the Owandats; and two rows of black wampum under 
their feet, through the whole length of the belt, to signify the road 
from Albany through the Five Nations lo the "Owandats." That six 
years ago they had sent Deputies with the same bell to Albany to 
renew the Friendship. 

I treated them with a quart of whiskey and a roll of tobacco. They 
expressed their good wishes to King George and all his people, and 
were mightily pleased that I looked upon them as brethren of the 
English. 

This day I desired the Deputies of all the Nations of Indians settled 
on the waters of the Ohio, to give me a list of their fighting men, 
which they promised to do. A great many of the Indians went away 
this day, because the goods did not come, and the people in the town 
could not find provisions enough, the nmriber was so great. 

The following is the number of every Nation given lo me by their 
several Deputies in Council in so many little slicks lied up in a bundle. 
The Senekas, one hundred and sixty-three. 
The Showonese, one hundred and sixty-two. 
The Owandats, one hundred. 
The Tisagechroann, forty. 
The Mohawks, seveniy-lour. 
The Mohickons, fifteen. 
[ The Onondagers, thirty-five. 
The Cajugas, twenty. 
The Oneidos, fifteen. 

The Delawares one hundred and sixty-five — in all seven hundred 
and eighty-nine. 

September 9ih — I held a council with the Senekas and save 
them a large string of wampum, hiack and white, to acquaint ihem 
that I had it in charge from the President and Council in Phila- 
delphia, to inquire who it is that lately took the people prisoners ai 



■filsTORY OF INDIANA COUNTY. 



613 



CaTolir.a; one thereof being a great man, and that by what discovery 
I had already made, I found it was some of the Senekas did it ; I there- 
fore desired them to give me the reasons for doing so; and as they 
had struck their haichei into their brethren's body, they could not 
expect that I could deliver them my message with a good heart, before 
they gave me satisfaction in that respect; for they must consider the 
English, ihoagh living in several Provinces, are all one people; and 
doing mischief to the one, is doing to the other. Let me have a 
plain and direct answer. 

September lOih— A great many of the Indians got drunk. One 
Henry Nnland had brought nearly thirty sallons of whiskey to 
the town this day, I made a present to the old Shawanese Chief, 
Cack-awalcheky, of a strand, a blanket, a match coat, a shirt, a pair of 
stockings, and a large twist of tobacco; and told him that the Presi- 
dent and Council of Philadelphia reuienibered their love to him. as to 
their old and true friend, and would clothe his body once more, and 
wished he might wear them out so as to give them an opportunity to 
clothe him again. 

There were a great many Indians present, two of which were the 
Big-Homiiiy and the Pride \ those that went off with Chailicr, but pro- 
tested against bis proceedings against our Indian traders. 

CatA;a(ra/c/ifA:i/ returned thanks; and some of the Six Nations did 
the same; and expressed their satisfaction to see a true man taken 
notice of, although he was now grown childish. 

September llth - George Croghan and myself staved an eight gallon 
keg of liquor, belonging to the aforesaid Henry Noland, who could 
^ot be prevailed on to hide it in the woods, but would sell it, and get 
drunk himself. 

I desired some of the Indians in council to send some of their 
young men to meet our people with the goods, and not to come back 
before they heard of, or saw them. I began to be afraid they had 
fallen into the hands of the enemy: so did the Indians. 

Ten warriors came to town, by water, from Niagara. We suspected 
them very much, and feared that some of their parlies went to meet 
our people by hearing of them. 

September 12th — Two Indians and a white man went out to meet 
our people, and had orders not to come back before they saw them, 
or to go to Franksiovvn where we left the goods. The same day the 
Indians made answer to my requests, concerning the prisoners taken 
in Corolina. Than.agieson, a speakerof the Senekas, spoke to the following 
purpose, in the presence ol all the deputies of the other Nations: 

"We went out door; brethren, you came a grtat way to visit us, 
and many sorts of evils might have befallen you by the way, which 
might have been hurtful to your eyes and your inward parts; for the 
woods are full ot evil spirits. We give you this string of wampum 
to clear up j'our eyes and minds, and to remove all bitterness of your 
spirits, that you may hear us speak a good cheer." 
Then the speaker took his bell in Bis hand, and said: 
" Brethren — When we and you first saw one another at your first 
arrival at Albany, we shook hands together, and became brethren, and 
we tied your ship to the bushes ; and after we had more acquaintance 
with you, we loved you more and more, and perceiving that a bush 
would not hold your vessel, we then lied her to a lorge tree, and ever 

51* 



614 HISTORY OF INDIANA COUNTY. 

after good friendship continued between us; afterwards, you, our 
brethren, told us, thai a iree niiiiht happen to fall down, and the rope 
rot wherewith ihe ship was lied : you then proposed to make a silver 
chain, and tie your ship lo the great mouniains in the Five Nations' 
country; and thi»i chain was called ihe Chain of Friendship ; we were 
tied by our arms together with it ; and we, the Indians of the Five 
Nations, heartily agreed to ii. and ever since a very gnod correspond- 
ence has been kept up between u- ; but. we are very sorry that at our 
coming here, we are obliged to talk of the incident that lately befel 
you in Carolina, where some of our warriors by the instigation of 
the evil spirit, struck iheir hatchets into their nwn body like ; for our 
brethren, the English, and we are of one body; and what was done, 
we utterly abhor as a thing done by the evil spirit himself: we never 
expected any of our people wmild ever do so to our brethren. We 
therefore remove our hatchei, w hich, bj the influence of the evil spirit, 
was struck into your body, and we desire that our brother, the Gov- 
ernor of New York, and C/ias, may use their utmost endeavors that 
the thing may be buried in ihe boiioiniess pit; that it may never be 
seen again ; that the chain ol Friendship which, is of so long standing, 
may be preserved bright and unhurt." — Gave a belt. 

The speaker then tooii up a string of wampum, mostly black, and 
said: 

'^Brethren — As we have removed our hatchet out of your body, or 
properly speaking, out of our own, we now desire that the air may 
be cleared up again, and the wound given may be healed, and every 
thing put in good undeisianding, as it was before; and we desire you 
will assist us to make up every thing wiih the Governor of Carolina; 
the man that has been brought to us prisoner, we now deliver up to 
you ; he is yours." 

Then laid down the string and took the prisoner by the hand, and 
delivered him to me. By way of discourse the speaker said : The 
Six Nation warriors often met Englishmen trading to the Catawbas, 
and often found that the Englishmen beirayed them to their enemies, 
and some of the English traiers had been spoken to by the Indian 
speaker last year in the Chenykves country, and were told not to do so; 
that the speaker, and many oiners of the Six Nations, had been afraid 
a long tune, that such a thing would be done by their warriors, at one 
time or other. 

September I3lh — Had a Council with the Senekas and Onontagers 
about the Wandots to receive them into our Union. I gave a large 
belt of wampum; and the Indians gave two; and every thing was 
agreed upon, about what should be said to the Wandats. The same 
day a full Council wa^ afipoine I. and met accordingly, and a speech 
was made to the Wandots by Asserhazhtz, a Seneka, as follows: 

*'' Bre hren — The Onvntady-Hagnx; last Spring you sent this belt of 
wampum to us (having ihe t)eil then in his hand) to desire us and our 
brethren, the Shawonese, and our cousins, the Delawares, to come to 
meet you in your retreat from the French ; we accordingly came to 
your assistance, and brought you here, and received you as our own 
flesh. We desire, you will think, you now join us and our brethren, 
the English; and you become our people with us." 

Then he laid that belt by, and gave them a very long string of wam^- 
pum. 



aiSTORY OF INDIANA COUNTY. 6l5 

The speaker took up the belt, I gave.^nd said : 
" Iirethren— The Engjlish, our brothers, bid you welcome and are 
glad you escaped as it were, out of captivity. You have been kept 
as slaves by Onontio, noiwiihsianding he called you all aion^ his child- 
ren ; but now you have broken the rope where with you had been 
tied, and became freemen ; and we, the united Six Nations, receive yea 
to our Council Fires, and make you members thereof; and we will 
secure your dwelling place to you against all manner of danger." — 
Gave the belt. 

"Brethren — We the Six Uniied Nations, and all our Indian allies, 
with our brethren 'he English, look upon you as our children, though 
you are our brethren ; we df sire you will give no ear to ihe Evil Spirit 
that spreads lies and wickedness ; lei your mind be easy and clear, 
and be of the same mind with us, whatever you may hear, noihing 
shall befal you, but what of necessiiy must befal us at ihe same time. 
" Brethren — We are extremely pleased to see you here, as it hap- 
pened just at the same time when our brother Onas is with us. We 
jointly, by this belt of wampuen, emtirace you about your middle, and 
desire you to be strons in your minds and hearts; let nothing alter 
your minds, but live and die with us." 

Gave a belt of wampum. J'he Council broke up. 

September 14th — A full diuiicil was su^nmoned, and ever)' thing 
repeated by me ui all the Indians, what passed in Lancaster at the 
last Treaty wi;h the TunglitiMes. 

The news was confirmed bv a belt of wampum from the Six Na- 
tions, that the French h;id imprisoned some of ihe Six Nations' Dep- 
uties, and thiriy of the Wandois, including women and children. 

The Indians that were sent to meet our people with the gfiods came 
back, and had not seen any thing of them, but they had been no further 
than the old Shawone>e Town. 

September 15th — I let the Indians know, that I would deliver my 
message to-morrow, and ihe goods; and that they must send deputies 
with me on my return homewards; and wherever we should meet the 
rest of the goods. I would send them to them, if they were not taken 
by ihe enemy. To which they agreed. 

The same day the i;elawares made a speech to me, and presented 
a Beaver coat, and string of wampum and, said : 

"Brethren — We let the President and Council of Philadelphia know, 
that after the Death of our chief man, Olomipees. our grand children, 
the Showonese, came to nur town to condole with us over the loss of 
our good king, your brother, and they wiped off our tears, and com- 
forted our minds; and as the Delawares are the same people with the 
Pennsylvanians, and born in one and the same country, we gave some 
of the present to our grand childeii, given us by the President and 
Council in Philadelphia, because the death of their good friend and 
brother must have afTecied ihem as well as us." 
Gave the Beaver coat and a string of wampum. 
The same day, the Wandots sent for me and Andrew Montour, and 
presented us with seven beaver skins, about len pounds weight, and 
said, they gave us that to buy some refreshments for us after our 
arrival in Pennsylvania, and wished we might get home safe, and 
lifted up their hands and said, they would pray God to protect us, and 
{uide us the way borne. 



616 HISTORY OF INDIANA COUNTY. 

September 16lh — I made answer to the Delawares. 

September 17th — It rained very hard; but in the afternoon, it held 
yp for about three hours. The deputies of the several nations met in 
council, and I delivered there what I had to say from the Piesident and 
council of Pennsylvania, by AncJrew Montour. 

The In liaiis signified great satisfaction, and were well pleased with 
the ceS'sation of arms. The rainy weather hastened them away with 
the snoods into tlie houses. 

September ISth — The speech was delivered to the Delawares in 
their own langu-.ii^e, and also the Showonense in theirs, by Andrew 
Alonlour, in the presence ol the (gentleman that accompanied me. I 
acquainted the Indians that I was determined to leave Ihem to-morrow, 
and return homeward. 

September 19th — Sraioliacfy, Tami^hrisson and Oniadagarehra, with a 
few more, came to my lodgings and spoke as follows : 

" Brolhcr Onus — We desire you will hear what we are going to say 
to you, in behalf of all the Indians on Ohio; their deputies have sent 
us to you. 

" We have heard what you have said to us; and we return you many 
thanks for your kindness in informing us of what passed between the 
King pf Great Britain and the Frenfh King; and in particular; we 
return you many thanks for the large presents; we ^o the same to our 
brother Jiasardijunn, who joined our brother Oiids in makmir us a present. 
Our brethren have indeed tied our hearts to theirs. We at present 
can but return thanks with an empty hand, till another opportunity 
serves to do it sufficient y We must call a great council, and do every 
thing regularly ; in the mean time, look upon us as your true brothers. 

^^ Brother — You said the other day. in council, if any thing befel us 
from the French, we must let you know it. VVe will let you know if 
we hear any thing from the French, be it ngainst us or yourself. You 
will have peace; but it is most certain that the Six Nations and their 
allies are upon the point of declaring war against the French. Let us 
keep up the correspondence, and always hear of one another." — They 
gave a belt. 

Scaiohiuly and the Half-King, with two others, had informed me that 
(hey often must send messengers to Indian Towns and Nations, and 
had M>i liing in their council bag, as they were new beginners, either to 
recompense a messenger or to gel wampums to do the business, and 
begged I would assist them with something. I had saved a piece of 
strand, and a half barrel of powder, 100 pounds of lead, ten shirts, six 
knives, and one pound of vermilliiin, and gave it to them (or the afore- 
said use. They returned many thanks and were mightily pleased. 

The same day I set out for Pennsylvania, in rainy weather, and arrived 
at George Croghan's on the 28ih instant. 

CONRAD WEISER. 

Pennsburg,* September 29, 1748. 

Provincial Record Book, L. p. 420-437. 

Little is left on record of the first settlers within the 
limits of this county. This region may have been explor- 
ed as early as 1750, by rhristopher Gist, who had been 
sent out by the Ohio Company formed in 1748. 

*■ Cunaberlaad county, seven or eight miles east of Carlisle. 



HISTORY OF INDIANA COUNTY. 617 

The first settlements made west of the Allegheny 
mountains, in Pennsylvania, were made by some adven- 
turers from Maryland 1754, in the souihwestern part of 
this state. Previous to 1756, Westmoreland county was 
a wilderness inhabited by Indians, and animals of the 
forest. Above the year 1763 or '64, considerable settle- 
ments were made at Red stone (Brownsville) and Turkey 
foot ; and it would appear that Indiana county was soon 
afterwards explored. 

The settlers at Redstone and Turkey foot were consid- 
er^d intruders ; and, with a view to cause them to remove, 
several persons were sent by government to Red stone, 
in March, 176S; as appears from the following, copied 
from the Provincial Record, at Harrisburg. 

*' The first attempt at making a settlement in the limits 
of Indiana county, is believed to have been made in 1769, 
in the forks of the Coneraaugh and Black-lick. The coun- 
try had been explored in 1766-7, and the explorers were par- 
ticularly pleased with the spot on which the town of Indiana 
now stands. It was clear of timber or brush, and clothed 
in high grass — a sort of prairie. So was what is now called 
the marsh, near the town on the Blairsville road, though at 
this time a nearly impervious thicket. When settlers had 
commenced improvememts within a few miles of the town, 
they cut off the grass for the support of their cattle in winter. 
In making their hay they were greatly annoyed by rattle- 
snakes. Persons are yet living in the neighborhood, who 
who have seen this natural meadow with the hay cut and 
stacked upon it. 

" About the year 1771 or 1772, Fergus Moorhead and 
James Kelly commenced improvements near where the town 
of Indiana now stands. Kelly's cabin stood within the 
limits that now enclose his son Meek Kelly's orchard. The 
country around might well be termed a howling wilderness, 
for it was full of wolves. 

"So soon as the cabins were finished, each one of these 
adventurers betook himself at night to his castle. One morn- 
ing Mr. Moorhead paid a visit to his neighbor Kelly, and 
was surprised to find near his cabin traces of blood and tufts 
of human hair. Kelly was not to be found. Moorhfad, 
believing him to have been killed by the wolves, was cau- 
tiously looking about for his remains, when he discovered 



618 HISTORY OF INDIANA COUNTY. 

him sitting by a spring, washing the blood from his hair. 

" He hnd Iain down in his cabin at night and fallen asleep; 
a wolf reached through a crack between the logs, and seized 
him by the heaij. This was repeated twice or thrice before 
he was sufficiently awakened to shift his position. The 
smallness of the crack and size of his head prevented the 
wolf from grasping so far as to have a secure hold, and that 
saved his life. Some time after this the two adventurers 
returned to Franklin county (then Cumberland) for their 
families On iheir return, they were joined by others. Jo- 
sepli M'Cartney settled near them at an early period. 

"The privations of such a situation can, in some degree, 
be measured by the difficulty of obtaining breadstuffs, and 
other necessaries of life of which the following is an example: 
— Moses Chambers was another early settler. Having ser- 
ved several years on board a British man-of-war, he was 
qualified for a life of danger and hardship. Moses continued 
to work on his improvement till he was told one morning that 
the last johnnycake was at the fire! What was to be done? 
There was no poi^sibility of a supply short of Conocoheague. 
He broke the johnnycake in two pieces, and giving one half 
to his wife, the partner of his perils and fortimes, he put up 
the other half in the lappet of his coat with thorns, and 
turned his horse's head to the east. There were no inns on 
the road in those da}s, nor a habitation west of the mountains 
save, perhaps, a hut or two at Fort Ligonier. The Kittan- 
ning path was used to Ligonier, and from thence the road 
made by Gen. Forbes' army. Where good pasture could be 
had for his horse, Moses tarried and abated. To him day 
■was night, and night was day. He slept only while his 
horse was feeding; nor did he give rest to his body nor ease 
to his mind, until he returned with his sack stored with corn. 

*' How forcibly would the affecting story of the patriarch 
Jacob apply iisell to the condition of families thus circum- 
stanced ! Jacob said to' his sons, "Why do you look upon 
one another? — and he said, Beliold I have heard that there 
is corn in Egypt; get you down thither, and buy lor us from 
thence that we may live and not die." 

"Moses Chambers was not the only one who had to en- 
counter the fatigue and trouble of procuring supplies from 
Franklin county — all had to do so. Such was the condition 
of this country, and such the prospects of settlers after the 
peace of 17b3. 



HISTORY OP INDIANA COUNTY. 619 

"A scarcity of provisions was one of the constant dangers 
of the first settlers, and, to make their course worse, there 
were no mills, even after they had began to raise grain. The 
first year some Indian corn was planted. It grew and in the 
form of " roastmg ears" was gladly gathered for food. I 
can see "in ray mnid's e}e," the hardy dame, with her 
home made apron of "lye color and white" pinned round her 
waist, stepping cautiously between the rows of corn, selecting 
the finest, that is to say the best, ears for dinner, ay, for 
breakfast and supper too. 

" When the grains got hard, it made good hommony. 
Reader didst ever eat hommony? If thou hast not, one of 
the good things of this world hath escaped thy notice entirely ! 
"About the year 1773, William Bracken built a mill near 
where William Clark, Esq., lately resided on Black-lick, 
which was a great convenience to the settlers, 'f hey mark- 
ed out a path, (they had never heard of railroads, canals, or 
even turnpikes,) by which they travelled to Bracken's mill, 
I see one ot them before me ; his bridle, or rather the bridle 
of his hoise, is of hickory bark, and he rides on a pack- 
saddle! 

" About the year 1774, Samuel Moorhead commenced 
building a mill on Stony Run, where Andrew Dixon's saw- 
mill now stands; but before it was completed, the settlers 
were driven off by the Indians. They fled to what was then 
called Sewickly Settlement. This was called Dunmore*s 
war; by some of the old settlers it was cal ed the civil war, 
but 1 don't know why. They lost their cattle and their 
crops. However, they returned in the fall to their im- 
provements, and Moorhead completed his mill. 

" The Indians were living on the Alegheny river at this 
time. They had a town called Hickorytown, another called 
Mahoning, also Punxatawney,(or Gnat or Mosquitoetown.) 
At their leisure — and they contrived to have a good deal — 
they stole the white men's horses, and showed s} mptoms of 
no doubtful character as to their feelings towards their new 
neighliors. 

*' Hy this time the disputes between the colonies and the 
mother country blazed out into war. The war, the most 
important in its effects that faithful history has ever recorded, 
reached even the hardy settlers of Indiana. 

"About 1775 or '6, a regiment or battalion of soldiers was 



620 HISTORY OF INDIANA COUNTY. 

sent to Kittanning to build a fort for the protection of the 
frontiers. Tfiis drove tlie Indinns into open hostility."* 

The county was originally settled by liisli and German 
immigiants, and is now possessed by their descendants 
and sonie Welsh. That the present inhabitants are a 
moral and religious people, is already indicated by the 
number of churches, bible and m s^ionary societies, Sab- 
bath schools, common schools, and their ably conducted 
newspapers. The latter will not fail in comparrison with 
any in the state. The physical and moral means so ap- 
plied as they are here, will cause, under ordinarily favor- 
able circumstances, " the wilderness to blossom."^ 

• R. B. McCabe, Esq., Blairsville Record, 1833. 



TH£ END. 



APPENDIX. 

Note A., p. 45. — The character of the Neulacnder is fully depicted by 
the Rcvd. Muhlenberg, in the HaUische Nachrichten. Those whom they 
deceived, often imprecated the wrath of heaven upon the vile impos- 
lers. M. says: Sie winsein, schreien. lamentiren, und die Haende 
ueberdjm Kopf zusammen schlaeen, ueber den Lammer und Zer- 
streuung, den sie sich nicht vorgesteilet; und wie hingegen andere 
alle Elemente und Sacramente, ja gar alle Gewitter und schrecklich- 
en Einwohner der Hoellen beschwoeren und anrufen, dass sie die 
Neulaender, Holiaendishe Kaufherren, die sie verfuehret in unzaeh- 
liche Theilen zerknirschen und martern moechten u. s. w. 

JL p. 48. — The scheme to educate the Germans, originate with the 
churches of Holland ; and as early as 1751 or 1752, considerable sums 
of money were collectdd towards the undertaking. In England the 
plan was matured, and a society was formed, of which the following 
distinguished persons were members : the Ripht Hon. Earl of Shaftes- 
bury, Earl of Morton, Earl of Finlater, and Lord Willoughby, of Par- 
ham. Sir Luke Schaub, and Sir Joshua Van Neck, Baronets. Mr. 
Commission Vernon, Mr. Chilly, and Mr. Fiuddyer, Aldermen of Lon- 
don. John Bance, Robert Furguson, and Nathaniel Paicc, Esqrs., of 
London. Rev. Benjamin Avory, L. L. D., Rev. Thomas Birch, D, D., 
Rev. Mr. Casper Wetstein, Rev. Mr. David Thomson, and Rev. Samuel 
Chandler, Secretary. 

The scheme was managed in Pennsylvania by James Hamilton, 
William Allen, Richard Peters, Benjamin Franklin, Conrad Weiser, 
Esqrs., and Rev. William Smith, Trustees General ; and Rev. Michael 
Schlatter, Visitor General. 

C. p. 78. — A proposition for the belter securing the province of 
Pennsylvania from the inroads of the Indians, and finding them em- 
ployment at home in their own country, to prevent them from coming 
abroad to seek it; with some few reasons why our present situation 
can never be a defenceable one, against such an enemy. 

As the province of Pennsylvania has at present (1757) 1300 sol- 
diers in their pay, viz ; Col. Clapham s regiment of 400 ; Lieut. Col. 
Armstrong's battalion 400 ; Lieut, Col. Weiser's battalion 500. 

Suppose the western battalion should garrison Fort Ijiltleton (now 
Bedford county) and that, that fort should have always stores of all 
kinds sufhcient, or rather more than sufficient, for 400 men for six 
months, that the western battalion should have three field officers, 100 
men under the command of one of the field ofiicers should always be 
in the fort, and the other .300 with the field officers should be perpetu- 
ally employed against the enemy in their own coantry, as the Colonel 
of the said battalion should order. 

It would be necessary, that there should be a constant and regular 
correspondence, between Col. Clapham, Lieut. Col. Armstrong and 
Lieut. Col. Weiser, and that they should endeavor, as far as in their 
power, for good intelligence. 



562 



APPENDIX. 



Each of these Colonel's should hare it in his power to employ, from 
time to time, and as often as they thought necessary, persons properly 
qualified to go into the enemy's ccuntry, in quest of intelligence, who 
should have equivalent rewards regularly paid, in proportion to the 
service they do, and the risk they run in obtaining their intelligence, 
(even tho' soldiers in the service) as such encouragement will cer- 
tainly produce good effects — which intelligence being communicated 
from time to time, by each to the other, there would be a great proba- 
bility of their judgment being right at all times, where to strike a blow 
to advantage. 

Col. Clapham's regiment should garrison I on Augusta, (now Nor- 
thumberland county) and that 300 men of said regiment should remain 
in that fort, with one field officer. I mention 300 at this place, because 
it is a large fort, and a place of more importance than Fort Littleton. 
That Col. Clapham's regiment should be augmented by drafts from 
the eastern battalion to 500 men, on account of 300 being left to garri- 
son Fort Augusta, and should have three field officers. That the re- 
maining 200 of this regiment, and two of the field officers, should be 
employed in the same manner as the western battalion. At Augusta 
there should always be stores for 6 months at least for 500 men. 

A strong fort should be built at Easlon, (Northampton county) 
where Lieut. Col. Weiser's battalion should be stationed, with six 
months stores in said fort for 400 men ; this battalion should likewise 
have three field otFicers. One hundred tnen and one field officer shonM 
be always in the fort at Easton, and ihe remaining 300 men, and two 
field officers of that battalion should be employed as that of Colonels 
('lapham and Lieut. Col. Armstrong. 

If these were disposed of in this manner, the two battalions would 
be at the extremities of the present inhabited frontiers of this province, 
and the regiment in the centre, at pretty nigh equal distances from 
each other, and were they assiduous in the noble cause in which they 
are engaged, they might give seasonable intelligence to each other, 
which might enable one or other of them to distress the enemy; and as 
each of these colonels is supposed to have full power to strike the en- 
emy where they best can, each of the Lieut. Colonel's would have 300 
men, two field officers to conduct any enterprize they thought proper 
to undertake, and Col. Clapham 200 men, and, if at any time they 
judged it most for the benefit of the service, they might unite two, or 
all their bodies, in which case they would have a little army of of 5 or 
600 men, and four field officers; or 800 men and six field officers, 
which would be sufficient to find the Indians employment enough, and 
perhaps more than enough, in iheir own country, and prevent them 
Irom the fatigue^of marching into this province in quest of English, to 
fight. 

I would presume to offer a few reasons why the same«nnmber of 
troops (as they are at present disposed of) cannot be of the like ser- 
vice in defending this province. 

The troops, at present, are divided into small bodies, at a consider- 
able distance from one another, and seemingly independent of each 
other — they have no intercourse or connection, one with another; as 
for giving intelligence to each other, (which is a most material thing) 
it never has, as yet, I believe, been thought of; or at least, I may say 
with safety, it has rarely been practiced. 



APPENDIX. 563 

The troops being disposed in companies of 50 men, each company 
tu garrison a fort, which forts if at any time attacked their garrisons 
are barely sufficient to defend them, for which reason they can be of 
no service to the country around them, as they cannot come to the as- 
sistance of the people, their garrisons being so small without exposing 
their fort, and if they should attempt to make a sally, and not meet 
with success, the consequence might be, the fort falling a prey to the 
enemy^ 

But suppose all these forts should continue in possession of the 
English, it would be only defending so much ground as each fort stood 
upon, as there is none of them that defend rivers, roads or passes, by 
which we could be greatly annoyed by a regular army (except Fort 
Augusta and Fort Littleton) as to Indians, every place is a pass to them, 
and we cannot pretend to stop their marches bv guarding passes. 

The advantages I would propose from the Fort at Easton, it would 
guard the river Delaware, preserve Easton from being destroyed and 
serve for a place of retreat to the eastern battalion, and where they 
could at ail times be supplied with every necessary. 

As our soldiers are not equal to Indians in the woods, I think it 
would be a great assistance to them, were they supplied with a green 
shirt, a green jacket, a green blanket and a green cloth cap, as the 
summer is the chief time of action, at which season of the year, the 
woods being very thick of green leaves, the Indians can conceal them- 
selves in time of action much better than we can ; but our being 
dressed in green, would be a great service to us, and would prevent, 
in some measure our parties Irom being discovered upon a march, 
which would likewise be of use. 

Were the disposition and clothing &c.,of the troops of this province 
as before mentioned, they would in some measure have the same ad- 
vantage over the Indians, that they have all along over us ; they could 
go to places where they would be certain of finding them, and in their 
turn lay the same snares to trapan them, that they now do for us in 
our country — When the Indians come to attack us in this province, it 
has been their general practice to proceed as follows. 

They come withiri a little way of that part of the inhabitants they 
intend to strike, and encamp in the most remote place they can find, 
to be quite free from discovery ; the next day, they send one, or some- 
times two (and so in proportion to their parts) of the nimble young 
fellows down into the inhabitants to different places, to view the situ- 
ation of the towns, the number of people at each house, the places the 
people most frequent, and to observe at each house, whether there are 
most men or women. To accomplish this they will lie about a house 
sonae days and nights, watching like a wolf, and seldom return to the 
party without carrying very particular intelligence ; then as soon as 
all their spies return, it is determined to march in the night in small 
parties of 2, 3, 4, or 5 in a party, each parly having a house allotted to 
them to attack — the strength of the party being calculated more than 
sufficient for the purpose intended — they arrive at their different desti- 
nations long before day, and knowing exactly the situation of the fam- 
ily and the number they have to engage, they make their attack about 
break of day, in the morning to the best advantage, and seldom fail to 
kill, and make prisoners the whole family. As the people know noth- 
ing of the matter until they are thus labrynihed, it is agreed thai the 



564 APPENDIX. 

moment each party has executed their part, they retreat with their 
prisoners and scalps to the remote place of rendezvous, they left the 
night before ; by this moans they are instantly assembled by different 
roads, marching in a body from thence, directly for the Ohio all thai 
day, and perhaps the next night before they halt, if they arc under any 
apprehensions of being discovered or pursued. Perhaps at some of 
these houses, thus attacked, some of the people may be fortunate 
enough to escape; the Indians not discovering them by some accident 
or other, as soon as the Indiaus are gone, they alarm the forts, and 
country around, then a detachment from the fort with a body of the 
country, proposes to pursue the enemy; all, or at lea?t chief part of 
the day, is spent in assembling, and counselling, and at last it is con- 
cluded to pursue; but the Indians having eight or ten hours start of 
them, they return much fatigued, finding it impracticable to overtake 
the enemy and are obliged to put up with their loss. 

Upon this the chief part of ihe remaining inhabitants, most adjacent 
to the place where this affair happens, fly and leave their habitations, 
and all they have to depend upon for support for their families, and 
some few perhaps determine to stay by their living, choosing rather 
to take the chance of dying by the hand of the enemy than starve with 
hunger by leaving their all behind ; those must be constantly on the 
watch, and cannot apply themselves to any industry, but live as long 
as they can upon what they have already got. The Indians avoid 
coming nigh that place for some time, and will make their next attack 
in the same manner at a considerable distance from thence, where 
the people are secure, and not thinking much about danger; by and 
by, the people that fled from the first place attacked, hearing of no en- 
croachments in that quarter, and being obliged through necessity, will 
return to their habitations again, and live in their former security, as 
if nothing had happened ; and then it will be time, and the Indians 
will give them the second stroke, with as much success as the first; 
and in this manner have we, of the province of Pennsylvania, been 
embarrassed and had our limbs lopped off, andour flourishing country 
greatly laid waste. 

I introduce the method the Indians have taken to destroy us, to prove 
the advantage that would accrue to this province and the cause in ge- 
neral, of our marching into the Indian country as here proposed; but 
let it be observed, it would not be prudent in us to march into their 
country in ihe same manner as they do into ours ; that is, we should 
never begin a march without good intelligence, for these reasons: the 
Indians know our country well ; I mean, the Delawares, Shawanese, 
Mingoes, Munceys and Nanticokes ; we know nothing of all theirs : 
we are thickly settled, and continue at our settlements, and therefore 
more difficult to find them, and quite uncertain, but by fresh intelli- 
gence ; they are more hardy and can suffer more fatigue, and provide 
themselves belter in the woods with provisions than we can ; this may 
proceed from nature, or custom, or perhaps both; if from nature sole- 
ly, we shall never attain these necessary qualifications lor Indian 
fighting; but if from custom, it is to be hoped in time we shall be- 
come good soldiers in this way, and prove a check to this barbarous 
banditti. 

It may be thought that we can proceed, as we are at preesut situa- 
ted, to destroy their towns in the same manner that Lieut. Col. Arm- 



APPENDIX. 565 

strong did the Kitlaning. This was a noble undertaking, and judici- 
ously executed; but to this I would answer, that this glorious enter- 
prize of Lieut. Armstrong's was quite an unexpected thing to the In- 
dians; and as they are a very cunning, indefatigable people, it will 
put them more upon their guard for the future ; and by our troops be- 
ing constantly employed amongst them at different places, at the same 
time, if we should be sometimes discovered, (as we undoubtedly will) 
and fail of an intention in one quarter, it will produce some good ef- 
lects in another, and by this means, thev never could know where to 
provide against us, which is a parallel case with us at present, and 
will remain so, unless we can remove the seat of war, by carrying it 
into the Indian country, which cannot be done by one body, unless it 
IS a powerful one, as we will be discovered in our march four times in 
five, and if discovered, and a small body, they will so counteract us, 
that we shall neither be able to execute our design nor retreat; and if 
there should be a succession of this bad fortune, it would be of very 
bad consequence; it would render it a difficult matter to persuade 
troops with success in that country. 

It is presumed that all the troops in the pay of the province of Penn- 
sylvania (to answer this purpose) are to be enlisted for life, as ail 
king s troops are, otherwise this end can never be attained, as they 
will be continually, once a year, composed of new recruits. 

Another bad tendency enlisting soldiers for a short time will have, 
that much time will be lost in recruiting, and in the interim between 
their being free and replacing them again by recruits (which are 
always esteemed inferior to old soldiers)— I say, in this interim, the 
province will be left quite defenceless, being entirely left without sol- 
diers, and should the enemy take the advantage of this, they might 
overrun the province without opposition, as we have no militia. 

When the troops are filled up again with recruits, before they pro- 
perly know themselves to be soldiers, the time lor which they enlisted 
is nigh expiring, and they grow indifferent whether they do their duty 
or not, if they can deceive their officers and escape punishment, their 
freedom engrossing more of their mind, than their duty. 

I hope these few thoughts will be accepted of as coming from a per- 
son who has nothing so much at heart as the welfare of the province 
of Pennsylvania. If they are of any service, it is well ; if not, let the 
author's zeal apologize for the attempt, and pardon his presumption. 

I), p. 109.— John McCullough was a native of Newcastle county, 
Del. When he was 5 years old his father moved to Cumberland (now' 
Franklin co.) owing to the hostile incursions of the Indians, his father 
retired with his family into York co. till 1756, when he again ventured 
to Cumberland. Sometime in July, John McCulloch, then a youn" 
lad, was taken by the Indians, and was among them for some timet 

E. p. 109.— The documents referred to being too long, are omitted in 
this place. 

F. p. 178.— (Omitting some 40 pages of Mss. such as letters, &c., 
the following is all that can be given here) : " Messrs. Hall and Sell' 
ers— As the affair of Frederick appears, at present, a very interesting 
subject, aHd I have not yet seen any proper account of it in any paper 
I beg, therefore, you will allow the lollowing relation of that matter^ 
from the beginning, a place in your next, which will oblige many, as 
well as, gentlemen, your humble servant. — D. 

48 



566 



APPENDIX. 



Carlisle Feb. 16, 1768. 
On the 18th-and 19th of January, the first notice arrived here of 
Frederick Stump, and his men, having murdered a number of Indians 
within this county, and that William Blyth was gone down to inform 
the governor. This account came not by any express, but by a pri- 
vate gentleman on business of his own. It was the beginning of our 
court week. The magistrates in town immediately met, to consult on 
measures to be taken. Had the sheriff then gone, it would have great- 
ly impeded the public business depending at court: And as all end? 
might be equally answered by the coroner, with the additional service 
of holding an inquest on the bodies, it was concluded to send him, and 
a message accordingly was immediately dispatched to hira. As he 
lives some distance from town, and the place where he was to go ly- 
ing remote, so that some little preparation was requisite, it was Thurs- 
day before he could get off. His directions were, to take a posse with 
him from beyond the hills, and try to take Stump and his men, hold 
an inquest on the bodies, and bury the dead. On the 23d in the after- 
noon, the Governor's orders came up, very near the same in substance 
with the above, and directing the sheriff also to go, and the Chief Jus- 
tice's warrant, ordering the prisoners, when taken, to be sent down u 
Philadelphia, to be examined and dealt with as the law directs. The 
Sheriff, and some of the magistrates, were preparing to set off, accord- 
ing to the Governor's orders, but about 8 or 9 in the evening the pris- 
oners were brought in by Capt. Patterson, and a party, from Juniata. 
Next day (being Sabbath) the weather very disagreeable, a guard to 
be provided, and some necessary preparation to be made, rendered 
it impracticable for the Sheriff to set off with the prisoners before 
Monday ; nor had any body at this time, the least apprehension of 
any design to rescue them. The clause in the warrant, ordering thefti 
down to Philadelphia, began to be a topic of much conversation in the 
town. The more general, nay, almost universal sentiment was, that 
if they went down, they would undoubtedly be tried there, some not 
properly distinguishing between examination and trial ; but the grea- 
ter part apprehensive that an act might be made for that purpose.— 
On Monday morning, when the Sheriff was now nigh ready to set off, 
a number of respectable inhabitants of the town, with some from the 
country, went to Colonel Armstrong's, and warmly remonstrated 
against the prisoners being sent down, until the Governor's and Chief 
Justice's pleasures should farther be made known, and whether they 
insisted upon it, strenuously alledging, it was yielding up a most val- 
uable privilege, and setting a precedent, that might hereafter be of 
pernicious consequence. They were then told, as were sundry others, 
on the same subject, at different times, that the Chief Justice's war- 
rant must be obeyed ; that he had an undoubted right to call any per- 
sons, in such case, before him, from any part of the Province; that 
there was a wide difference between examination and trial ; that it 
was uncharitable to suspect any of the people below, while nothing 
illegal was yet done, of attempting to deprive us of so valuable a 
privilege; tha, it was at most but bare suspicion, and ought not tc 
prevent from present duty, but all was overbalanced by the above lc< 
tender jealousy of privilege, and apprehensions of a particular law 
b^ng made. It was also pleaded, it was not usual to have prisoners 
sent out ©f their proper county ; and would not be insisted on by those 



APPENDIX. 567 

ia authority, on a representation of matters being given, and the con- 
fessions of the prisoners being sent down. The weather, at the same 
time, was very bad; creeks broke up, and waters high ; the Susque- 
hanna apprehended to be dangerous, and most probable impassable ; 
and to have had the prisoners lying by the way, would have been dis- 
agreeable, and might have been running some hazard. Upon the 
whole, therefore, it was thought most advisable, that the Sheriff should 
not, as yet, set off with the prisoners (tho' no determination was form- 
ed that they shoud not all be seat.) As the prisoners were, in conse- 
quence of the above result, to remain yet some time longer in this 
jail, the sheriff and prison-keeper requested a commitment, and were 
told it v/as not necessary, but this being farther insisted on, it was 
g'iven, not before the abo^^e remonstrating and reasoning on the case, 
but after it, on Monday afternoon, with a necessary clause, " until re- 
moved by superior authority." It was also thought expedient, by the 
magistrates in town, at this critical junction, to have the assistance of 
as many of their brethren from the county as could conveniently be 
had, in an affair so embarrassed, through the above mentioned gener- 
ally prevailing mistake ; snd notices were accordingly sent them on 
Tuesday and their attendance requested the next day. The hasty ap- 
prehension of the prisoners being Ordered to Philadelphia for trial, 
had spread almost beyond credibility, like an electric shock, over all 
the county and into adjacent counties and governments; and, unex- 
pectedly to all here, had occasioned a very general alarm. On the 
Wednesday, when the magistrates were met, an anonymous letter, that 
had been dropt in a porch and found by the sheriff, was brought to 
them, containing information, that several parties were formed and 
forming, to rescue the prisoners, if attempted to be sent out of the 
county, and shortly a parly of 40 or 50 armed men were discovered 
on their way to town ; but by the influence of several who met them, 
they were happily prevented, and prevailed on to disperse. 

It now began to appear, by various accounts, that were the prisoners 
to be'taken either by the direct road to Lancaster county, or by the 
way of York, or had they even been taken sooner, there was the high- 
est probability of a rescue, by parties secretly formed for that purpose, 
as soon as it was known the prisoners were to be sent to Philadelphia. 
The magistrates therefore fully convinced of the imminent danger at- 
tending the prisoners going, thuughi the most safe and prudent, that 
they should not be removed until the Governor and Chief Justice- were 
first informed how matters stood, which was accordingly done. And 
as there was not the least apprehension of any design against the jail 
>ave what appeared in the above party, and they had gone away per- 
fectly satisfied, no one suspected any further disturbance or danger, 
while the prisoners were there. But on the Friday following, January 
30 (1) a party of about 60 or 70, said to be chiefly beyond the North 
mountain, came on the same wicked design. They sent in two of their 
number a little before the body, who, going into the room of the jail, 
called for a dram, and got it. The jailor discovering some arms on 
them, immediately ran to the door and shut it, but was met by three 
more, who bolted in armed, seized him, carried him to a different 
room, set a guard on him, and threatened him severely, if he should 
stir. Instantly after these came the whole party, who having entered 
the town, till then undiscovered, had, with the most violent precipiia- 



568 



APPENDIX. 



tion, hastened to the jail, placed a guard on the door, and on all within, 
whom they thought might molest them ; they then constrained a girl 
to get them the keys, lighted a candle, went down to the dungeon (tho' 
without crow bar, axe, or any such instruments) opened the door and 
brought out the prisoners. While this was transacting, the sheriff 
came, Colonel Armstrong, Messiuers Miller and Lyon, magistrates; 
the Rev. Mr. Steel, and some others of the inhabitants, had attempted 
to bring these infatuated people to reason, urging a conference, and 
that they should be satisfied in any reasonable demand. The sheriff 
and magistrates got in as far as the door, and some of them declared 
they would die before the prisoners should be taken out, not knowing 
what was transacting within, for in an instant the prisoners were at 
the door, and a cry made to clear the way. The sheriff attempted to 
lay hold of Stump, but was pushed ofT, and both he and the magis- 
trates were jostled or borne away into the street, and the prisoners 
carried off. The whole transaction was but a few minutes. At the 
extremity of the town, going out, they compelled a smith to cutoff 
their hand cuffs. At the instance of the sheriff and magistrates, who 
alledged that night, at that juncture, have more influence on this peo- 
ple than they could, the Rev. Messieurs Steel and Boucher, (the only 
clergy then in town) with some others, went after them, and overtook 
a few of the hindmost about a mile out of town (the body, with the 
prisoners, being gone off) these said that they, for their part, would 
agree to the prisoners being restored, on condition they were assured 
they should not be sent to Philadelphia. When this message was 
brought back, the sheriff, Col. Armstrong and Lyon, went after them, 
but came up with none, they having all proceeded as fast as they could 
on their way over the hill. On Sabbath it was agreed to raise the 
posse, and cross the hill, to attempt regaining the prisoners; this was 
accordingly done. In the temper those people were in, violent mea- 
sures would have instantly occasioned the shedding of blood ; the 
milder steps of reasoning and opening consequences were therefore 
pursued ; and assurances given them, that the trial of the prisoners 
would undoubtedly be in their proper county. This was the grand 
point; and I doubt not the prisoners would have been returned the 
next day, had not a mischievous report been carried to them just after 
the sheriff and his posse came away, that a party of soldiers were 
ready to take the prisoners to Philadelphia, as soon as delivered. — 
When the Governor's letter came up, in answer to one informing him 
of the rescue. Col. Armstrong and some others with him, went over 
again, and had a number of them together. They all declared their 
willingness to return the prisoners, but desired opportunity to con- 
sult others of their number, and had unluckily permitted Stump to go 
to see his family, on his promise of returning in a few days, tho' some 
alledged he was still in custody somewhere among them. Those pre- 
sent promised to use their best endeavors to have both the prisoners 
returned. 

This is a plain state of that unhappy affair. Some, I hear, reflect 
severely on the civil officers concerned it, and on the keeper of the pri- 
son ; but I am fully convinced, on a candid examination it will be 
found they acted, every man, with the greatest uprightness of heart, 
thai part which appeared at the time most conducive to the public 
good, tending to the preservation of good order, and support of govern- 



APPENDIX. 569 

ment, and what, perhaps, even those who may blame with the great- 
est severity, could have thought most prudent, had they been in the 
situation." 

Carlisle, March 15, 1768. 
Messieurs Hall & Sellers — 

As several in|urious aspersions have, in the affair of Frederick 
Stump, been cast on my people and me, and so assiduously pro- 
pagated and made public, as that there novr remains no other method 
ot overtaking and wiping away the reproach, but by a public defence. 
I hope, therefore, a regard to injured innocence, will procure the fol- 
lowing a place in your next paper, which will much oblige many, as 
well as, gentlemen. Your humbie servant, 

Gko. Duffield. 

To the Public. — It gives me peculiar concern to find myself obliged 
to the disagreeable task of vindicating my conduct in this manner, in 
a matter where I thought myself secure from the attacks of malice it- 
self; but the gross misrepresentations of facts, which I have good rea- 
son to believe, have been made by some invidious pen or pens from 
this town, and industriously spread, lay me under the unhappy neces- 
sity of either sacrificing my character of those assassins, or JHstify 
myself to the public by a true state of facts; which latter, every man 
having regard to either character or usefulness, would choose. This, 
therefore, I hope, will sufficiently plead my excuse. I am then openly 
reproached, as having advised and prevailed on Col. Armstrong to op- 
pose the chief justice's warrant, ordering Stump and Ironcutter down 
to Philadelphia, and having also used influence in exciting the people 
that rescued the prisoners, to that riotous undertaking. As to the first 
.;f these, it is sufficient to observe : The prisoners were brought in on 
Saturday evening ; on Monday forenoon, when they were nigh ready 
to be sent off", a number of reputable inhabitants of the town, with some 
lYora the country, met and remonstrated against it, as has been repre- 
sented in this Gazette of the 3d inst,, and that afternoon ihe temporarv 
commitment of the prisoners, until removed by superior orders, was 
wrote. From early on Sabbath morning, until the whole was over on 
Monday, I was out of town, having been in course at my congregation 
in the country; nor saw Col. Armstrong, nor heard from him, nor sent 
to him, from before the prisoners came in, until the Monday evening, 
after 7 o'clock, he came to my house, and greatly complained of the 
opposition which had that day been made to sending oflTthe prisoners; 
vand expressed, in the strongest terms, his sentiment, that the chief 
justice's warrant must be obeyed, and his earnest desire of having the 
prisoners taken down, according to the order therein contained, and 
went away fully of the same mind ; only proposing to have the assist- 
ance of some of the magistrates from the country, in a matter where 
the uneasiness of the people was so general and great, which step had 
oeen proposed and advised to by some of the magistrates in town be- 
fore he came to my house; nor had I any thing farther with the colo- 
nel on this head, at any other time. From this true state of the fact, 
which I am able to prove, if requisite, it is evident, 1st. That I had 
no intercourse of any kind with Col. Armstrong, from before the pris- 
oners carne in, until the evening after they had been, in consequence of 
the unreasonable weather, and remonstrance of the people, prevented 

48* ■ 



570 APPENDIX. 

from being taken off, and committed as above. 2dly. That the expe- 
dient of having other magistrates, was not by any advice of mine, bnt 
proposed before I so much as saw the Col. 3dly. That Col. Armstrong 
was equally firm in the sentiment of obedience being due to the chief 
justice's warrant at his going from roy house, as he was at coming 
to it, and equally desirous of having it obeyed, and was the same af* 
terwards, as I am also able to prove. And 4thly. Asa natural conse- 
quence from the whole, that the author and spreader of the report, that 
Col. Armstrong was informed by me to disobey, or oppose the chief 
justice's warrant, were guilty of raising and spreading a false report. 
As to my having used any influence to excite those who rescued the 
prisoners, in that iniquitous step, I shall just observe : That week th€ 
prisoners were in jail, I was providentially prevented from visiting 
my charge; (the service I was then engaged in) this now appears a 
favorable circumstance, for had I been employed in executing that 
part of my office, the pen of detraction would, most probably, have 
construed it into sowing sedition from house to house: but from the 
time I returned home on Monday afternoon, I was no where out of my 
house, except at two or three neighbors in town, and saw scarce any 
body but my own family until Wednesday morning, when I set off, by 
sun up, in company with several genjiemen, for Yorktown, and did not 
return till Saturday afternoon, (the day after the rescue) and -can, if 
requisite, vindicate my character, stabbed by defamatory influence. 
Oh my way home, I was alarmed with the news ol the rescue. On 
the next day (being Sabbath) I publicly declared from the pulpit, 
my detestation of the fact. Early on Monday I crossed the North 
mountain, in company with William Lyon, Esqr., before the posse 
were yet gathered, and joined my best endeavors, in attempting to re- 
cover those infatuated people to reason ; and openly, in the presence 
of a large number assembled together, condemned their distracted con- 
duct, and urged the return of the prisoners. The next Sabbath on sub- 
jection to government, and that week went over again, in company 
with Col. Armstrong, and some other gentlemen, who went to make 
those people assurances from the Governor, of the prisoners being 
tried in their own county. These things I say not with boasting, but 
in self vindication, and whether this was consistent wilh having ex- 
cited to the fact, let the impartial world judge. I must have had a face 
of impudence, almost qeyond Beelzebub himself, to have encouraged 
first, and then acted thus, and blamed and censured, even to raising 
resentment of some against me, for my being so much engaged. 

But what innocence can secure from the impeachment of determined 
obloquy and reproach 1 But to attack myself alone, and attempt to 
stab a single character, did not suffice — Haman's malice cannot rest 
in aiming at Mordecai's men only; the whole nation is marked out for 
vengeance. The same spirit seems to have actuated these modern 
Hamans, in attempting to roll over the blame of rescuing the prison- 
ers, entirely on my people, and assert that the rescuers were all of 
them, or that the whole was done by the new side (as they are termed) ; 
this charge must have proceeded from the greatest malevolence and 
rancor, beyond expression ; partly in religion not having any hand, 
more or less, in the matter; and to attempt turning it into the chan- 
nel, (though I know it was early done in this place, and is perfectly 
agreeable to the general course some have peen steering for seve- 



APPENDIX. 371 

ral years past) is, I am bold to say, infamous and base to the last 
degree, calculated only to heighten the fire of party, embroil society, 
both civil and religious, weaken the country, by dividing it against 
itself, subserve in every respect, the Prince ot Darkness, without 
being able of answering any one single valuable purpose. Suppose 
ihey had all been of my people that perpetrated the rescue, would 
it have been friendly, or acting the pari of christian brotherhood, to 
have been so eager to expose the whole body? Would it not have 
been imitating Edon,as recorded by Obediah ? Might it not, in such 
case, have been sufficient to name out the guilty persons, without 
attempting to board the whole society with infamy, unless they had 
already become infamous for such conduct? Or could any other 
reason be alleged for pointing out the particular society, unless to at- 
tempt rendering both me odious in the eyes of aU good men, even 
on that suspicion of their having all belonged tome? Which yet is 
far from being the case. A great part of the rescuers came from 
beyond the North mountain ; and though I detest the very idea of 
party in the affair, and esteem the attempting to fix it on, or roll it 
ofT, any one sect or party, an evidence of a wicked temper, as some of 
all sorts were concerned, as they happened to live in the neighborhood, 
or part of the country where the design was formed, and were made 
acquainted with it, both old side and new, Seceders, Covenanters, Church 
of England, and even Papists, as some of the persons concerned 
have declared. Yet, this I will assert, and can maintain, that as far 
as I have yet been able to learn the names of those found out to have 
been engaged, there are not more of what was formerly called the 
new side, than there are of what was called the old ; this I do not say, 
to blame or free any one particular sect or party, but merely to show 
it was no party matter. 

I have now stated this matter in a fair point of light, which I am 
able to maintain, and leave it to every impartial mind, what sentiment 
to form of the author or authors, and spreaders of such invidious mis- 
representations. Every good man, I am sure, must hold them in detes- 
tation, as parts in society, civil or religious, base incendiaries, and a 
nuisance in a commonwealth. And yet, odious as the character is, and 
however detestable the conduct, there are some of so perverse a dispo- 
sition, so uninfluenced by religion, and destitute of honesty, as to lurk 
privily for the innocent without cause, who sleep not except they have 
done mischief, and their sleep is taken away, unless they have attemp 
ted to cause some to fall. If any see proper to contradict the state of 
of facts here given, I desire they may do it, not in the undermining 
way of private whispering and suggestion, the favorite plan of base 
detractors, whose safely lies in concealment, and whose day is as the 
shadow of death, but openly in the public prints, signed with their 
name. Nor shall I esteem myself bound to take any notice of any 
thing which the author will not dare openly to avow. And if none 
appear, I hope the public will be so candid as to take their silence on 
this head, as a full, though tacit confession, of their being convin- 
ced, that the representations they have made, or propagated, are false 
and groundless. 

Geobge DcrriELD. 

( - 

The Indian Me-d«-w, i. e. Conjurors, are a set of professional impos- 



572 APPENDIX. 

lors, who, availing themselres of the superstilioas prejudices of therr 
people, acquire the name and reputation of men of superior knowl- 
edge, and possessed of supernatural powers. 

The Indians ascribing many of their diseases to the arts of sorcerers, 
^ruches, or wizzards, these conjurors or Mc-dc-u, are called for and 
consolted, not only to cure the diseases of the people, with which they 
are afflicted in the course of nature ; but to counteract and destroy the 
enchantments of wizzards or witches, as in the case of Half-King, at 
Harris' terry, who, the credulous Indians believed, had been bewitch- 
ed by the French. 

The conjurors pretend that some disorders cannot be cured by the 
^^rdinary remedies, generally employed by their common doctors. — 
They say that when a complaint or disease has been brought on by 
witchcraft, more powerful remedies must be applied, and measure? 
adopted to defeat the designs of the one that has bewitched the unfor- 
tunate sufferer. This can only be done by removing or destroying the 
poisonous substance which has been conveyed into the patient, or if 
It is an evil spirit, to confine or expel him, or banish him to a distant 
region. 

When the Me-de-u has succeeded in persuading the afflicted person 
that his disorder is such that ordinary remedies must fail, he then en- 
deavors to convince him of the necessity of enabling him, by superior 
strength, to drive out the spirit, the patient must make the Me-de-u ve- 
ry strong, that is in few words, give him a lnvgcfce, which he will sa\ , 
is justly due to a man, who like himself, is able to perform such dif- 
ticult things. If the patient is rich, the conjuror will, in such a case, 
always ascribe the complaint, to the powers of witchcraft — To be re- 
lieved, the disordered one is modestly demanded to give a fine horse, 
a good rifle, a considerable quantity of wampum, or goods to a hand- 
some amount. 

When his fee is well secured, he prepares, and before, for the kani 
task he has undertaken, with as much apparent labor, as if he wa? 
about to remove a mountain, he casts his eyes all around him to 
attract notice — appears wrapped in thought and deep meditation, and 
enjovs for a while, the admiration of the spectators. At last he be- 
gins' his operation — Frightfully dressed, he approaches his patient, 
with a variety of contortions and gestures, and performs by his side 
and all over him all the antick tricks that his imagination can sugges; 
He breathes on him — blows into his mouth — squirts some medicines 
which he has prepared, into his face, moulh and nose — he rattles hi" 
gourd filled with dry beans andpebbles' — pulls out and handles abou. 
a variety of sticks and bundles in which he appears to be seeking I'oi 
the proper remedy ; all which is accompanied with the most horn' 
gesticulations, by which he endeavors, as he says, to frighten th* 
spirit or the disorder away, and continues in this manner until he i^ 
quite exhausted and out of breath, when he retires to wait the issu*-. 
If the patient desires it, the visits are repeated from time to tin:r 
not however, without his giving a fresh fee previous to each visii.— 
This continues until the property of the patient is entirely exhausted, 
or until he resolves on calling in another doctor, with whom feelini; 
must begin anew in the same manner that it did with his predecessor. 
H.p. 264. — Tecdyuscung. This notorious Indian chief, was a conspi- 
cuous character. His conduct on many occasions was impolitic, an.' 



APPENDIX. 573 

consequently irritated to the utmost the spirited nation of the Dela- 
wares ; and was surrounded by enemies — his fate was destined — ia 
1763 he was burned with his house while lying in his bed asleep. 

Col. Clapham's Instructions to Capt. Hambright, commander of a de- 
tachment from Col. Clapham's Regiment, given at Fort Augusta, Nov. 
4, 1756. Sir : — You are to march with a party of two sergeants, two 
corporals, and thirty-eight private men under your command, to attack, 
burn and destroy an Indian town or towns with their inhabitants on the 
West Branch of the Susquehanna, to which Monsieur Montour will 
conduct you, whose advice you are directed to pursue. In every case 
you are to attack the town agreeable to the plan and disposition here- 
with given you, observing to intermix the men with bayonets equally 
among the three parlies in the attack ; and if any Indians are found 
there, you are to kill, scalp and captivate as many as you can ; and if 
no Indians are there, you are to endeavor to act in such a manner and 
with such caution, as to prevent the discovery of your having been 
there, by any party that may shortly arrive after you, for which reason 
you are strictly forbidden to burn, take away, destroy or meddle with 
any thing found at such places; and immediately dispatch Monsieur 
Montour with one or two more to me, with intelligence. When you 
come near a place of action, you are to detach Monsieur Montour with 
as many men as he shall judge necessary to reconnoitre the parts, and 
to wait in concealment in the mean time with your whole party till his 
return ; then to form your measures accordingly. After having burnt 
and destroyed the town, you are in your, retreat to post an officer and 
twelve men in ambush, close by the wood side, at the most convenient 
place for such purpose which may offer, at about 12 miles distance 
from the place of action, who are to surprise and cut off any party 
who may attempt to pursue, or happen to be engaged in hunting there- 
abouts, and at the same time, secure the retreat of your main body. 

It is very probable on these moonlight nights you will find them en- 
gaged in dancing, in which case, embrace that opportunity by all 
means, of attacking them, which you are not to attempt at a greater 
distance than 20 or 2.5 yards ; and be particularly careful to prevent 
the escape of women and children, whose lives, humanity will direct, 
to preserve as much as possible. If it does not happen that you find 
them dancing, the attack is to be made in the morning, just at such a 
season when you have light enough to execute it, in which attempt, your 
party is to march to the several houses, and bursling open the doors, to 
rush in at once. Let the signal for the general attack, be the discharge 
of one firelock, in the centre division. 

It there are no Indians al the several towns, you are, in such a case, 
to proceed with the utmost caution and vigilance, to the road which 
leads to Fort Du Quesne, there to lie in ambush, and to intercept their 
march to, or from the English settlements; and there to remain, with 
that design, till the wantof provisions obliges you to return. 

I wish you all imaginable success, of which, the opinion I have of 
yourself, the officers and party under your command, leaves me no 
room to write. 

I am, sir, &c. 

WiLtiAM Clapham. 

P. S. You will not omit to post the sergeant with a party on the op- 
posite side of the river during the attack, according to direction, to 



574 



APPENDIX. 



prevent the enemy from escaping that way, and to reserve one half of 
your force. 

«'^-/'.— There was a conference held with the Indians at Mr. George 
Croghan's in Pennsboro township, Thursday, May 17, 1750— Present, 
Kichard Peters, Secretary ; Com ad VVeiser, Jame^s Galbreath, George 
Croghau, George Stevenson, William Wilson and Hermanns Alricks, 
Esqrs. — Andrew Montour, Jac-nech-doaris, Sai-nch-to-wano, Catara- 
dirha, Tohonady Hunlho, a Mohock from Ohio. 

The object of this conference was to conciliate the Indians, and 
give them assurances that those who intruded upon their lands on 
Juniata should be removed without any further delay. 

Another conference was held at the same place, Thursday June 7lh 
1750 — Present, Richard Peters, George Croghan, Matthew Dill, Her- 
manus Alricks, William 'I'rent, George Stevenson, Esqrs. — Andrew 
Montour. Ca-na-ja-cha-nah, alias, Broken-Kettle, Hatch in-hatta, Ca- 
dre-dan-hin-nut, chiets in the Seneca Nation, settled on Ohio. 

A'. — A meeting of the Commissioners and Indians, at Carlisle, Oct. 
1st, 1753. Present— Richard Peters, Isaac Norris, and Benjamin 
Franklin, Commissioners. 

The Deputies of the Six Nations, Delawares, Shawanese, Twight- 
wees and Owendots. 

Conrad Weiser and Andrew Montour, Interpreters. James Wright, 
John Armstrong, Esq. members of the Assembly. The Magistrates & 
several other gentlemen and freeholders of the county of Cumberland. 

The speech of the Commissioners: 

Brethren, the Six Nations, Delawares, Shawanese, Twightwees & 
Owendots : Though the city of Philadelphia is the place where all In- 
dians should go, who have business to transact with this government, 
yet your request, signified to Col. Fairfax, at Winchester, and by hun 
communicated to the Governor, by an express to Philadelphia, he has 
been pleased on this particular occasion to dispense with your coming 
iliere, and has done us the honor to depute us to receive and treat 
with you at this Town, in his place and stead ; this is set forth in his 
commission, which we now produce you, under ths Great Seal of this 
Province, the authentic sign and testimony of all acts of Government. 

BreShren — By this string we acquaint you, that the Six Nations do 
at our request, join with us in condoling the losses you have of late 
sustained by the deaths of several of your chiefs and principal men, 
and that Scarrooyady is to deliver for both what has been agreed to 
be said on this melancholy occasion. 

Then the Commissioners gave a string of wampum. 

The Scarrooyady spoke as follows : 

Brethren — the Twighiwees and Shawanese — It has pleased him who 
is above, that we shall meet here to day and see one another. I and Bro- 
ther Onas join together to speak to you. As we know your seats at 
home are bloody, we wipe away the blood, and set your seats in order 
at your council fire, that you may set and consult again in peace and 
comfort as formerly, that you may hold the ancient union, and streng- 
then it and continue you your old friendly correspondence. Here a 
string was given. 

Brethren — Twightwees and Shawanese — We suppose that the blood 
IS now washed otf. We jointly, with our Brother Onas, dig a grave 
for your warriors, killed in your country; and we bury their bones 



APPENDIX. 575 

decently ; wrapping them up. in these blankets ; and with these we 
cover their graves. Here the goods were given to the Twighlwees 
and Shawanese. 

Brethren — Twightwees and Shawanese — I and my brother Onas, 
jointly condole with the chiefs of your towns, yonr women and chil- 
dren, for the loss you have sustained; we partake of your grief, 
and mix our tears with yours ; we wipe your tears from your eyes 
that you may see the sun, and that every thing may become clear and 
pleasant to your sight; and we desire you shall mourn no more. — 
Here a belt was given. 

The same was said to the Delawares. 
And then he spoke to the Owendots in these words : 
Our children and brethren, the Owendots — You have heard what I 
and my brother Onas have jointly said to the Twightwees, Shawanese 
and Delawares. We now come to speak to you. We are informed 
that your good old wise men are all dead, and you have no more left. 
We must let you know, that there was a friendship established by 
you and your grandfathers ; and a mutual council fire was kindled. — 
In this friendship all those then under the ground, who had not yei 
obtained eyes and faces (that is thosp unborn) were included; and it 
was then mutually promised to tell the same to their children, and 
children's children. But so many great men of your nation have died 
in so short a time, that none but youths are left ; and this makes us 
afraid, lest that treaty so solemnly established by your ancestors, shoud 
be forgotten by you : We therefore now come to remind you of it, and 
renew it : We rekindle the old fire, and you put on fresh fuel. — Here 
a string of wampum was given. 

The other speeches of burying the dead &c. were the same as those 
to the Twightwees &c. After each had been spoken to, Scarrooyady 
proceeded thus : 

Brethren, Delawares, Shawanese, Twightwees and Owendots : — Wf 
the English and Six Nations, do now exhort every one of you to do your 
utmost to preserve this union and friendship, which has so long and hap- 
pily continued amongst us. Let us keep the chain from rusting, and pre- 
vent every thing that may hurt or break it, from what quarter soever it. 
may come. 

■ Then the goods allotted for each nation, as a presence of condolence 
were taken away by each ; and the council adjourned to the next day. 
(October 2d 1753 — Same persons present that were the day before.) 
The speech of the Commissioners. 

Brethren, Six Nations, Delawares, Shawanese, Twightwees and 
Owendots — Now that your hearts are eased of grief, and we behold one 
another with cheerful countenances, we let you know that the governor 
and the good people of Pennsylvania, did not send us to receive you 
empty handed, but put something into our pockets to be given to such as 
would favor us with this friendly visit. The goods, therefore, we re- 
quest you would accept of, and divide amongst all that are of your 
company, in such proportions as shall be agreeable to you. You know 
how to do this better than we. What we principally desire, is, that yon 
will consider this present as a token of our esteem for you, and use it 
with a frugality becoming your circumstances, which call at this time 
for more than ordinary care. 
Brethren — Wkh pleasure we behold here the Deputies of 5 different 



576 APPENDIX. 

Nations, viz : the United Six Nations, the Delawares, the Shawanesc, 
the Twightwees and Owendots. Be pleased to cast your eyes towards 
this belt, whereon six figures are delineated, holding one another by 
the hands. This is a just resemblance of our present Union. The five 
first figures representing the Five Nations to which you belong, as the 
sixth does the government of Pennsyivania.with whom you are linked 
in a close and friendly union. In whatever part the belt is broke, all 
the wampum runs olTand renders the whole of no strength or consist- 
ency. In the like manner, should you break faith with one another, 
or with this government, the union is dissolved. We would hereby 
place before you the necessity of preserving your faith entire to one 
another, as well as to this government. Do not separate. Do not part 
on any score. Let no diflferences nor jealousies subsist a moment 
between Nation and Nation ; but join altogether as one man, sincere- 
ly and heartily. We, on our part, shall always perform our engage- 
ments to every one of you. In testimony whereof, we present you 
with this belt. Here the belt was given. 

Brethren — We have only rhis one thing further to say at this time. 
Whatever you answers you may have to give, or business to transact 
with us, we desire you would use dispatch, as it may be dangerous lo 
you, and incommodious to us, to be kept long from our homes at this 
season of the year. 

Oct 3, 1753 — same persons present. 

Scarrooyadv speaker : 

Brother Onas — What we have now to say, I am going to speak in 
behalf of the Twightwees, Shawanase, Delawares and Owendots. 

You have, like a true and affectionate brother, comforted us in our 
alfliction. You have wiped awaj' the blood from our seats, and set 
them again in order. You have wrapped up the bones of our warri- 
ors, and covered the graves of our wise men ; and wiped the tears from 
our eyes, and the eyes of our women and children ; so that we now 
see the sun, and all things have become pleasant to our sight. We 
shall not fail acquaint our several Nations with your kindness. We 
shall take care that it be always remembered by us ; and believe it will 
be attended with suitable returns of love and affection. 

Then one of the Twightwees stood up and spoke as follows (Scar- 
rooyady, interpreter.) 

Brother Onas: The Ottowas, Cheepaways and the French have struck 
us. The stroke was heavy and hard to be borne, for thereby we lost our 
King and several of our warriors, but the loss, our brethren, the Eng- 
lish suffered, we grieve for most. The love we have had for the Eng- 
lish, from our first knowledge of them, still continues in our breasts; 
and we shall ever retain the same ardent affection for them. We cover 
the graves of the English with this beaver blanket. We mourn for them 
more than for our own people. 

Here he spread on the floor some beaver skins, sewed together in the 
form of a large blanket. 

Then Scarrooyady spoke as follows : 

Brother Onas — I speak now on behalf of all the Indians present, jn 
answer to what you said when you gave us the goods and belt. What 
you have said to us yesterday is very kind, and pleases us exceedingly. 
The spee-h which accompanied the belt, is particularly of great mo- 
ment. We will take the belt home to Ohio, where there is a greater and 



APPENDIX. 577 

wiser council than we, and consider it, and return you a full answer. 
We return you thanks for the present. Gave a string. 

Brother Onas — Last spring when you heard of the march of the 
French army you were so good as to send us word, that we might be 
on our guard. We thank you for this friendly notice. 

Brother Onas — Your people not only trade with us in our towns, 
but disperse themselves over a large and wide extended country, in 
which reside many nations. At one end live the Twighlwees, and at 
the other end the Caghnawagas and Adirondacks, these you must 
comprehend in your chain of friendship; they are and will be, your 
brethren, let Onontio say what he will. Gave a string. 

Brother Onas — I desire you would hear and take notice of what I 
am about to say to you now. The Governor of Virginia desired leave 
to build a strong house on Ohio, which came to the cars of the Gover- 
nor of Canada, and we suppose this caused him to invade our coun- 
try. We do not know his intent, because he speaks with two tongues. 
So soon as we know his heart, we shall be able to know what to do, 
and shall speak accordingly to him. We desire that Pennsylvania & 
Virginia would, at present, forbear settling our lands over the Alle- 
gheny hills. We advise you rather to call your people back on this 
side the hills, lest damage should be done, and you think it ill of us. 
But to keep up our correspondence with our Brother Onas, we will 
appoint some place on the hills, or near them, and we do appoint 
George Croghan on our part, and desire you to appoint another on 
your part, by a formal writing under the governor's hand. Let 
none of your people settle beyond where they are now, nor on the 
Juniata lands, till the affair is settled between us and the French. 
At present, George Croghan's house at Juniata, may be the place 
where any thing may be sent to us. We desire a commission may 
be given to the person entrusted by the government of Pennsylvania, 
and that he may be directed to warn people from settling the Indian 
lands, and empowered to remove them. Gave a belt and string. 

Brother Onas — All we who are here desire you will hear what we 
are going to say, and regard it as a matter of moment. The French 
look on the great number of traders at Ohio with envy ; they fear 
they shall lose their trade. You have more traders than necessary, 
and they spread themselves over wide country, at such great distan- 
ces, that we cannot see them or protect them. We desire you will 
call back the great number of your traders, and let only three sets 
remain ; and order these to stay in three places, which we have ap- 
pointed for their residence, viz: Ijogstown, the mouth of Canawa 
and the mouth of Mohongialo; the Indians will then come to them, 
and buy their goods in these places, and no where else. We shall 
likewise look on them under our care, and shall be accountable for 
them. We have settled this point with Virginia in the same man- 
ner. Gave a string. 

Brother Onas — The English goods are sold at too dear a rate to us. 
If only honest and sober men were to deal with us, we think they might 
afford the goods cheaper. We desire therefore that you will take effec- 
tual care hereafter, that none but such be suffered to come out to trade 
with us. — Gave a string. 

Brother Onas — Your traders now bring scarce any thing but rum and 
flour. They bring little powder and lead, or other valuable goods. — 

49 



578 



APPENDIX. 



The rum ruins us. We beg you would prevent its coming in such 
quantities, by regulating the traders. We never understood the trade 
■was to be for whiskey and flour. We desire that it may be forbidden, 
and none sold in the Indian country ; but that if the Indians will have 
any, they may go among the inhabitants and deal with them for it. — 
When these whiskey traders come, they bring thirty or forty cags, and 
put them down before us, and make us drink ; and get all the skins that 
should go to pay the debts we have contracted, for goods bought of the 
Fair traders ; and by this means, we not only ruin ourselves but them 
too. These wicked whiskey sellers, when they have once the Indians in 
liquor, make them sell their very clothes from their backs. In short, 
if this practice be continued, we must be inevitably ruined. We most 
earnestly therefore beseech you to remedy it. — A treble string. 

Brother Onas — I have now done with generals ; but have something 
to say for particular Nations. 

The Shawanese have heard some news since they came here, which 
troubled their minds; on which they addressed themselves to their 
grand fathers, the Delawares, and said, Grandfathers, we will live and 
die with you and the Six Nations : We, our wives, our children, and 
children yet unborn. 

N. B. This was occasioned by Conrad Weiser's having told them in 
private conversation, that while he was in the Mohock country, he was 
informed that the French intended lo drive away the Shawanese (as 
well as the English) from Ohio. 

Scarrooyady then proceeded, and said, I have something farther to 
say on behalf of the Shawanese. 

Brother Onas — At the beginning of the summer, when the news was 
brought to us, of the approach of the French, the Shawanese made 
this speech to their uncles, the Delawares, saying, " Uncles, you have 
often told us, that we were a sensible and discreet people ; but we lost 
all our senses and wit when we slipped out of your arms ; however 
we are now in one another's arms again, and hope we shall slip out no 
more. We remember, and are returned to our former friendship, and 
hope it will always continue. In testimony whereof, we give you, our 
uncles, a string of ten rows." 

The Shawanese likewise, at the same time, sent a speech to the Six 
Nations saying, "Our Brethren, the English, have treated us as a peo- 
ple that had wit: the French deceived us: but we now turn our heads 
about, and are perpetually looking to the country of the Six Nations 
and our Brethren, the English, and desire you to make an apology for 
us ; and they gave right strings of wampum." The Delawares and 
Sis Nations do therefore give up these strings to Onas, and recom- 
mend the Shawanese to him as a people who have seen their error, 
and are their and our very good friends. — Gave eight strings. 

Brother Onas — Before I finish, I must tell you, we all earnestlj' re- 
quest you will please to lay all our present transactions before the 
council of Onondago, that they may know we do nothing in the dark. 
They may perhaps think of us, as if we did not know what we were 
doing, or wanted to conceal from them what we do with our brethren ; 
but it is otherwise, and therefore make them acquainted with all our 
proceedings. This is what we have likewise desired of the Virginians 
when we treated with them at Winchester. 

Brother Onas — I forgot something which I must now say to you ; it 



APPENDIX. 579 

is to desire you would assist us with some horses to carry our goods ; 
because you have given us more than we can carry ourselves. Onr 
women and young people present you with this bundle of skins, desir- 
ing some spirits to make them cheerful in their own country — not to 
drink here. Presented a bundle of skins. 

Then he added — The Twightwees intended saying something to 
you, but they have mislaid some strings, which has put their speeches 
into disorder ; these they will recti/y, and speak to you in the after- 
noon. 

Then the Indians withdrew. 

Afternoon — The Twightwees speak by Andrew Montour. 

Brother Onas — Hearken what I have to say to the Six Nations, Del- 
wares, Shawanese and English. The French have struck us ; but 
though we are hurt, it is but one side; the other side is safe. Our 
arm on that side is entire ; and with it we have laid hold on our pipe, 
and have brought it along with us, to show that it is as good as ever. 
And we shall leave it with you, that it may be always ready for us and 
our brethren to smoke in when we meet together. 

Here he delivered over the calumet, decorated with fine feathers. 

Brother Onas — We have a single heart. We have but one heart. 
Our heart is green, and good, and sound. This shell, painted green on 
its hollow side, is a resemblance of it. 

The country beyond us, towards the setting of the sun, where the 
French live, is all in darkness; we can see no light there. But to- 
wards sun rising, where the English live, we see light; and that is the 
way we turn our faces. Consider us as your fast friends, and good 
Brethren. 

- Here he delivered a large shell, painted green on the concave side, 
with a string of wampum tied to it. 

Brother Onas — This belt of wampum was formerly given to the king 
of the Piankashas, one of our tribes, by the Six Nations ; that if at any 
time any of our people should be killed, or any attack made on them 
by their enemies, this belt should be sent with the news, and the Six 
Nations would believe it. 

The Twightwees, when they brought this belt to the Lower Shawa- 
nese town, addressed themselves to the Shawanese, Six Nations, Dela- 
wares, and then on the English, and said — 

Brethren, we are an unhappy people : we have had some of our 
brethren, the English, killed and taken prisoners in our towns. Per- 
haps our brethren, the English, may think or be told that we were the 
cause of their death ; we therefore apply to you, the Shawanese, &c. to 
assure the English we were not. The attack was so sudden, that it was 
not in our power to save them. And we hope, when you deliver this 
to the English, they will not be prejudiced against us but look upon us 
as their Brethren. Our hearts are good towards them. — A large belt 
of fourteen rows. 

Brethren — One of our kings on his death bed, delivered to his son, 
the young boy, who sits next to me, these eight strigs of wampum, and 
told him, " child, I am in friendship with the Shawanese, Delawares, 
Six Nations and English ; and I desire you, if by any misfortune I 
should happen to die, or be killed by my enemies, you would send this 
string to them, and they will receive you in friendship in my stead." — 
Delivery the strings. 



580 APPENDIX. 

The following is a speech of the wife of the Piankasha King, after 
her husband's dealh, addressed to the Shawanese, Six Nations, Dela- 
wares and English : " Remember, Brethren, that my husband took a 
fast hold of the chain of friendship subsisting between your Naiions: 
therefore I now deliver up this child into your care and protection, and 
desire you would take care of him ; and remember the alliance his 
father was in with you, and not forget his friendship, but continue 
kind to this child." — Gave four strings black and white. 

Brethren, Shawanese, Delawares, Six Nations and English — We ac- 
quaint all our Brethren, that we have prepared this beaver blanket as 
a seat for all our brethren to set on in council. In the middle of it we 
have painted a green circle, which is the colour and resemblance ot 
our hearts, which we desire our brethren may believe are sincere to- 
wards our alliance with them. — Delivered a beaver blanket. 

Then Scarrooyady siood up and said : 

Brother Onas — The Shawanese and Delawares delivered this speech 
lo the Six Naiions, and desired they would deliver it to the English, 
and now I deliver it on their behalf. 

Brethren — We acquaint you, that as the wife of Piankasha King de- 
livered his child to all the Nations to be taken care of, they desire that 
those Nations may be interceded with, to take care that the said child 
may be placed in his father's seat, when he comes to be a man, to rule 
their people. And the Six Nations now in behalf of the whole, request 
that this petition may not be forgotten by the English, but that they 
would see the request fulfilled. — Gave four strings. 

Then Scarrooyady desired the Six Nations Council might be made 
acquainted with all these speeches: and added that they had no more 
to say ; but what they have said is from their hearts. 

Oct. 4 — Same persons present. 

The commissioners, unwilling to lose any time, prepared their an- 
swers early this morning, and sent for the Indians, who having seated 
themselves, the following was made to them : 

Brethren : Six Nations, Delawares, Shawanese, Twightwees and 
Owendots — The several matters delivered by you, yesterday, have 
been well considered, and we are now going to return you our an- 
swers. 

The concern expressed by the Twightwees for the death and the 
imprisonment of the English, with their professions of love and es- 
teem, denotes sincere and friendly disposition, which entitles them to 
our thanks, and the continuance of our friendship — this they may cer- 
tainly depend upon. 

Brethren — You have recommended to us the several Nations, who, 
you say, live in that great extent of country, over which our traders 
travel to dispose of their goods, and especially the Twightwees, Adi- 
rondacks and Caghnawagas, who, you say, live at different extremi- 
ties, and have good inclinaticn towards the English. We believe you 
would not give them this character unless they deserved it. Your re- 
commendation will always have a weight with us, and will dispose us 
in favor of them, agreeable to your request. 

Brethren — The several articles which contain your observations on 
the Indian trades, and the loose, straggling manner in which that trade 
is carried on, through countries lying at great distances from your 
towns — Your proposals to remedy this, by having named three places 



APPENDIX. 



581 



for the traders to reside in, under your care and protection, with a re- 
quest that the Province would appoint the particular persons to be 
concerned in this trade, for whom they will be answerable. What you 
say about the vast quantities ot rum, and its ill effects, and that no 
more may be brought amongst you, all these have made a strong im- 
pression upon our minds ; and was it now in our power to rectify 
these disorders, and put matters on the fooling you propose, we would 
do it with great pleasure ; but these are affairs which more immedi- 
ately concern government ; in these, therefore, we shall imitate your 
example, by laying them before the governor, assuring you, that our 
heartiest representations of the necessity of these regulations shall 
not be wanting, being convinced, that unless something effectual be 
speedily done in these mailers, the good people of this Province can 
no longer expect satety or profit in their commerce, nor the continu- 
ance of your affection. 

Brethren — We will send an account to Onondago of all that has 
been transacted between us. We will assist you with horses for the 
carriage of the goods given you. We grant your women and young 
men their request lor rum, on condition that it be not delivered until 
you shall have passed the mountains. 

Scarrooyady some days ago desired us to give orders for th*" mend- 
ing of your guns, &c. and we did so ; being obliged to send for a gun- 
smith out of the country, as no one of that trade lived in the town ; 
who promised to come; but having broke his word, it has not been in 
our power to comply with this request — Here the siring given wiih the 
request was returned. 

Having delivered our general answer, we shall now proceed to give 
you one to what was said by particular nations, as well by the Shawa- 
nese in the forenooa, as by the Twightwees in the afternoon. 

Brethren — Delawares and Shawanese — We are glad to see you in 
such good dispositions to each other. We entreat you to do every 
thing you can to preserve the continuance of ihis agreeable harmony. 
The Shawanese may be assured we retain no manner of remembrance 
of their former miscarriages. We are perfectly reconciled, and our 
esteem for their nation is the same as ever. Gave a large string. 

Brethren Twightwees — We shall take your several presents, shells, 
strings, beaver blankets and calumet pipe, with us, and deliver them 
to the governor; that these, and the several things said at the delivery 
of ihem, may remain in the council chamber, at Philadelphia, for our 
mutual use and remembrance, whenever it shall please the Great Be- 
ing who sits above, to bring us together in council again. Gave a long 
sKing. 

Brethren — We desire you will send these two strouds to the young 
King, as an acknowledgment of our affectionate remembrance of his 
father's love to us, and our good will to him. Be pleased to present 
to the widow of Piankasha King, our late hearty friend, these handker- 
chiefs to wipe the tears from her eyes ; and I likewise give her son 
these two strouds to clothe him. Here two handkerchiefs and two 
strouds were given. 

Brethren Twightwees — We assure you, we entertain no hard tho'ts 
of you, nor in any wise impute to you the misfortune that befel the 
Eiiglish in your town ; it was the chance of war : We were struck to- 

49* 



582 



APPENDIX. 



gether ; we fell together ; and we lament your loss equally with our 
own. 

Brethren — Six Nations, Delawares, Shawanese, Twightwees and 
Owendots — We have finished our answers ; and we hope they will be 
agreeable to you. Whatever we have said, has been said with a hearty 
good will towards you ; our hearts have answered our professions, and 
you will always find our answers agreeable to them. 

Then the commissioners were silent; and after a space of time, re- 
newed their speeches to them. 

Brethren — Six Nations, Delawares, Shawa7tese, Twightwees Sf Owendot& — 
We have something to say to you, to which we entreat you will give 
your closest attention, since it concerns us and you very much. 

Brethren — We have held a council on the present situation of your 
afiairs. We have reason to think, from the advices of Taaf and Cal- 
lender, that it would be too great a risque, considering ;he present dis- 
order things are in at Ohio, to increase the quantity of goods already 
given you : we therefore acquaint you, that, though the Governor has 
furnished us with a larger present of goods, lo put in your public store 
house, as a general stock, for your support and service, and we did 
intend to have sent them along with you ; we have, on this late disa- 
greeable piece of news, altered our minds, and determined, that the 
goods shall not be delivered till the governor be made acquainted with 
your present circumstances, and shall give his own orders for the dis- 
posal of them ; and, that they may be ready for your use, lo be appli- 
ed for, whenever the delivery may be safe, seasonable, and likely to 
do you most service ; we have committed them to the care of your 
good friend, George Croghan, who is to transmit to the governor by 
express, a true and faithful account how your matters are likely to 
turn out; and on the governor's order, and not otherwise, to put you in 
the possession of them. 

This we hope you will think a prudent caution, and a testimony of 
our care for your real good and welfare. 

Brethren — We have a favor of a particular nature to request from 
your speaker, Scarrooyady, in which we expect your concurrence and 
joint interest ; and therefore make it to him in your presence. 

Here the Commissioners, applying to Scarrooyady, spoke as follows: 

Respected Chief and Scarrooyady — We have been informed by An- 
drew Montour and George Croghan, that you did at Winchester, in 
public council, undertake to go to Carolina, to solicit the release of 
some warriors of the Shawanese Nation, who are said to be detained 
in the public prison of Charleston, on account of some mischief com- 
mitted by them, or their companions, in the inhabited part of that pro- 
vince ; and these two persons, who are your very good friends, have 
given it as their opinion, if, after you know what has passed at Ohio, 
you shall now leave this company of Indians, and not return with 
them to their families, and assist in the consultations with the Half- 
King, and their other chiefs, what measures to take in this unhappy 
situation of your affairs, all may be irrecoverably lost at Allegheny, 
and the loss, with justice, be laid at your doors. You may, perhaps, 
be afraid to disoblige the Shawanese, as ii was at their instance you 
undertook this journey ; but we intend to speak to them, and have no 
doubt of obtaining their consent ; convinced as we are, that the re- 
lease of these prisoners will be sooner and more effectually procured, 



APPENDIX. 583 

by the joint interposition of the Governor of Pennsylvania and Vir* 
ginia, than by your personal solicitation, inasmuch as our governor, to 
whom we shall very heartily recommend this affair, can send with 
greater dispatch, his letters to Carolina, than yon can perform the jour- 
ney ; for at this season, opportunities present every day of sending by 
sea to Charleston ; and an express by land may be dispatched to Gov- 
ernor Dinwiddie as soon as we return to Philadelphia. 

The Shawanese chiefs expressing dissatisfaction at this endeavor 
of the commissioners to stop Scarrooyady, it gave us some trouble to 
satisfy them and obtain their consent; but at last it was effected, and 
when this was signified to Scarrooyady, he made this answer: 

Brother Onas — I will take your advice, and not go to Virginia at 
this time ; but go home, and do every thing in my power for the com- 
mon good: and, since we are here now together, with a great deal of 
pleasure, I must acquaint you, that we have set a horn on Andrew 
Montour's head, and you may believe what he says to be true, be- 
tween the Six Nations and you. .They have made him one of their 
counsellors, and a great man among them, and love him dearly. 

Scarrooyady gave a large belt to Andrew Montour, and the commis- 
sioners agreed to it. 

After this difliculty was got over, nothing else remained to be done ; 
and as the absence of these Indians was dangerous, the commissioners 
put an end to the treaty, and took their leave of them, making them 
private presents at parting, to such of the chiefs, and others, as were 
recommended by the interpreters to their particular notice. 

The letter of Taaf and Callender, referred to ifl the above report, 
was read and ordered to be entered. 

September 28th, 1654, Shawanese cabins. 

Sir — This day met with Joseph Nelson, coming from Ohio, and bro't 
the news, which I believe to be true; which I am sorry for of the 
French coming down and all the English have to move off the river 
Ohio, and have brought their goods with them. The Half-King went 
to the French fort to know what was the reason of their coming to set- 
tle the lands of Ohio. The commander told him the land was theirs, 
and discharged him home, and told him he was an old woman, and all 
his Nation were in his favor, only him, and if he did not go home he 
would put him in irons. He came home and told the English to go 
off the place, for fear they should be hurt — with tears in his eyes. 

Sir — We are on our journey to the river, to see the Half-King, and 
to talk to him; but durst not take our goods over the hill. Pray, sir, 
keep this news from our wives, but let Mr. Peters know of it, as we 
understand he is to be in Carlisle. 

We remain your friends, &c. 

Callsitdeb & Taaf. 

To Wm. Buchanan. 

L.p.259 — At a council held at Carlisle, Tuesday 13th, January 
1756 — Present: the Hon. Robert Hunter Morris, Esq., Lieut. Governor; 
James Hamilton, William Logan, Richard Peters, Esq., and Joseph 
Fox, Esq. Mr. Croghan not coming till Sunday, and no more than 7 
Indians yesterday, he was sent for and asked the reasons of this de- 
lay, and why no more Indians were come ; and in answer said : he 



584 APPENDIX. 

was employed in raising men and building forts, according to his in- 
structions at Philadelphia, that he was at Kishycoquillas when the let- 
ter was delivered to him, that the Indians were mostly gone a hunting, 
and he expected as many more at least as were there, to come in a day 
or two. 

Mr. Weiser was then sent for, and it was taken into consideration 
what should be said to the Indians. 

Mr. Croghan informed the Governor and Council, that he had sent 
a Delaware Indian called Jo Hickman to the Ohio for intelligence, who 
returned to his house the day before he came away, and brought him 
the following account, namely : 

That he went to Kittanning, an Indian Delaware town on the Ohio. 
40 miles above Fort Du Quesne, the residence of Shingas and Captain 
Jacobs, were he found 140 men, chiefly Delawares and Shawaiiese, 
who had then with them, above 100 English prisoners, big and little, 
taken from Virginia and Pennsylvania. 

That then the Beaver, brother of-Shingas, told him that the governor 
of Fort Du Quesne had often offered the French Hatchet to the Shaw- 
anese & Delawares, who had as often refused it, declaring they woulJ 
do as they should be advised by the Six Nations, but that in April or 
May last, a party of Six Nation Warriors in company wiih some 
Caghnawagos and Adirondacks called at the French fort in their going 
to war against the Southern Indians, and on these the governer of Fort 
Du Quesne prevailed to offer the French haichet to the Delawares and 
Shawanese, who received it from them, and went directly against 
Virginia. 

That neither Beaver nor several others of the Shawanese and Dela- 
wares approved of this measure, nor had taken up the hatchet, and the 
Beaver believed some of those who had were sorry for what they had 
done, and would be glad to make up matters with the English. 

That from Kiitanning he went to Logstown, where he found about 
100 Indians and 30 English prisoners, taken by the Shawanese, living 
at the Lower Shawanese town, from the Western frontier of Virginia, 
and sent up to Logstown. He was told the same thing by these Shaw- 
anese that the Beaver had told him before, respecting their striking 
the English, by the advice of some of the Six Nations ; and further, he 
was informed, that the French had solicited them to sell the English 
prisoners ; which they had refused, declaring they would not dispose 
of them until they should receive advice from the Six Nations what to 
do with them. 

That there are more or less of the Six Nations living with the Shaw- 
anese and Delawares in their towns, and these always accompanied 
them in their excursions upon the English, and took part with them in 
their war. That when at Logstmon, which is near Fort Du Quesne, on 
the opposite side of the river, he intended to have gone there to see 
what the French were doing in that Fort, but could not cross the river 
for the driving of the ice ; he was however informed, that the number 
of the French did not exceed 400. 

That he returned to Kittaning and there learnt that ten Delawares 
were gone to the Susquehanna, and as he supposed, to persuade those 
Indians to strike the English, who might perhaps be concerned in the 
mischief lately done in the county of Northampton. 

Mr. Croghan said he was well assured, by accounts given him bjr 



APPENDIX. 



585 



other Indians, that the Delawares and Shawanese acted in this hostile 
measure, by the advice anfl concurrence of the 3ii Nations, and that 
such as those as lived in ihe Delaware towns, went along with them, 
and took part in their incursions. And further, that a party of ihe 
Six Nations had brought some of the Cherokees from their country 
and settled them on the Ohio at Kcntucke river about one hundred 
miles below the Lower Shawanese town, where they were now living. 

Mr. Croghan was asked, why the Delaware he sent to Ohio did not 
conae with the other Indians, and he said that he had undertaken to 
carry a message from one of his relations, whom he saw on the Ohio 
to some of his friends on the Susquehanna, and was gone upon that 
errand. He likewise said that the White Mingos and several other 
Indians were on hunting, and he had sent for them, and he hoped they 
would come, but he must inform the commissioners that great differ- 
ences had arisen between the White Mingo and the Belt about a suc- 
cessor to Tanachrisson, that they were in great heats, and perhaps 
about, and if any thing hindered the While Mingo from coming, it 
would be hearing that the Belt was already at Carlisle. 

It was then taken into consideration what should be said to the In- 
dians, and in substance agreed to. 

Mr. Hamilton being in November last at Harris', and finding the 
people collected here in the utmost confusion, and in continual fear of 
being fallen upon by a large body of French and Indians who were 
said by Scarrooyady and Montour to have passed the Allegheny Hills 
in their march towards this province, promised Aroas, an Indian of 
the Six Nations, then at Harris', called in English, Silver Heels, a 
handsome reward if he would undertake to go along to the east side of 
the Suequehanna as far as to Shamokin and Nessopecka to observe, 
what was doing by the Indians there, and return with the intelligence, 
and he accordingly went, and not having received any consideration 
for his journey he was called in, and desired to relate what he found 
doing by the Indians, and he gave this account. 

That he found no Indians at Shamokin, and therefore proceeded 
higher up Susquehanna, as far as Nescopecka, where he saw 140 In- 
dians all warriors, that they were dancing the war dance, expressed 
great bitterness against the English, and were preparing for an expe- 
dition against them, and he thought would go to the eastward. He did 
not stay with them, finding them in this disposition, but went to the 
house of an uncle of his at a little distance from Nescopecka, between 
that and Wyoming, who told him the Dalfiwares and Shawanese on 
the Ohio were persua led by the French to strike the English, and had 
put the hatchet into the hands of the Susquehanna Indians, a great 
many of whom had taken it greedily, and there was no persuadinsj 
them to the contrary, and that they would do abundance of mischief 
to the people of Pennsylvania, against whom they were preparing to 
go to war. 

N. B. After this Silver Heels desired a private conversation with 
Mr. Weiser, and in it assured him that the Delawares and Shawanese 
had acted entirely on their head and by the instigation of the French, 
and that the Six Nations neither knew any thing of or would approve 
their proceeding, and earnestly intreated him to believe him this to be 
certainly true. 

At a council held at Carlisle, Thursday, 15th January, 1756. 

Present : The Hon. R. H. Morris, Lieut. Gov. James Hamilton, Wil- 



586 



APPENDIX. 



liam Logan, Esq. and Joseph Fox, Esq. The Belt, Seneca George, 
New Castle, David, Jagrea, Silver Heels, Isaac and others — Indians. 

Conrad Weiser and George Croghan, Interpreters. 

The Indians having taken their seats, the Governor spoke as fol- 
lows: 

Brethren — I came to this part of the Province, and brought with me 
some of the wise and governing part of the people of Pennsylvania, 
with iniention to hold a treaty with the Indians that were yet our 
friends, and for that purpose sent messages to the several branches of 
the Susquehanna, to invite them to meet at Harris's ferry; but from 
the confusions that attend at the present times, 1 have reason to be- 
lieve that the messengers I have employed have not been able to go 
to all our friends upon that river, so that the number of Indians now 
met is not so large as it would otherwise have been. However, yon 
that are come, I esteem our hearty friends, and thank you for meeting 
us here, which I take the kinder, considering the dangers that at pres- 
ent attend those that are our real friends. And, in the first place, you 
will permit me, to thank you for the kind expression of condolence 
which the Old Belt in your behalf made at Harris's in my way to this 
town, upon the losses we had sustained, and the blood that was shed 
by our Indian enemies, which he was pleased to say, was a common 
loss, and afl'ected you as well as us ; thereby signifying, that we wers 
one people and our cause the saa:ie; and you will allow me by this 
string to wipe the dust from your eyes and ears, and to desire that what 
i shall now say to you, in behalf of the people of Pennsylvania, may 
be heard with attention and make a proper impression on your minds. 
Gave a string. 

Brethren — You very well know, and your ancestors must have in- 
formed you of the ancient friendship that has subsisted between the 
people of this province and the ."several tribes and nations of Indians, 
as well as those of the Six United Nations, from the time that William 
Penn first landed in this country, till within these few months. 

This friendship has ever been sacred on our pans, and we cannot 
accuse ourselves of having violated a«iy treaties that were substituted 
between us, but on the contrary have at all times and upon all occa- 
sions given marks of our love and affection for our Indian allies — Yob 
cannot be strangers, Brethren, of the manner in which we have lately 
been treated by some that not many months before gave us the strong- 
est assurances of their fidelity, and of their accord renewed the for- 
mer friendships subsisting between them and us. 

They have in the most cruel and barbarous manner fallen upon ouif 
peaceable inhabitants, living quietly under the faith of those treaties 
that subsisted between us, and slaughtered them without distinction of 
age or sex — such treatment was what we least expected, and having 
settled in peace, were not prepared to resist such an attack. — But, 
though we have been unused to a warlike life, and were at first unpre- 
pared for war, yet our enemies may be assured, that we are not inca- 
pable of it, or of defending ourselves. In behalf of the people of Penn- 
sylvania, I desire you will tell me who those Indians are that have ae- 
ted so unfairly by us, and whether in this particular they have the ad- 
vice and consent of the Six Nations. And I further desire you will tell 
me what is the reason of complaint against us; for they have never 
complained to us of any injury. Gave a belt. 



APPENDIX. 587 

Brethren — 

In this critical state of our affairs, I do in the name and behalf of 
the Province desire your advice and assistance in what manner we 
may best put a stop to the ravages of our enemies; and as it may be 
necessary to send messages to several tribes of Indians in alliance 
with us, and it is dangerous to send our own people, I must desire 
some of you will undertake to carry such messages as there may be 
thought occasion to send. Gave a belt. 

Council held on Friday, 16th January 1756— Same persons present 
as day before. 

The Belt recited the substance of what was said yesterday upon the 
first. 

Belt then said — Brethren : 

When we of the Six Nations living on the Ohio were first informed 
of the French designs to take possession of lands upon that river, we 
resolved in conjunction with the Shawaticse and Dclawares, and their 
allies to hinder them from doing it, and sent the late Half-King to the 
French Commander, then on his march with a body of men for that 
purpose, to forbid him to proceed, and to require him to return home 
to Canada; that the Half-King and others with him, pursuant to that 
resolution, met the French commander,* and forbade him accordingly, 
but he paid no regard to their prohibition, but moved ou, which led us 
to enquire into the cause of their boldness and presumption, in taking 
possession of a country belonging to the Six Nations, not only w ithout 
their leave, but contrary to their express and solemn prohibition by 
the Half-King; and we then first learnt that the French had prevailed 
upon the Shawanese, who were a nation in alliance with the Six Na- 
tions, and living by their suffrance upon a part of their country and 
upon the Dclawares, who were a tribe conquered by, and entirely de- 

•When Half-King called on the French Commander he was coldly 
received ; and sternly ordered to declare his business, which he did 
in these words : 

Fathers, I am come to tell you your own speeches ; what your own 
mouths have declared. You, in former days, set a silver basin before 
us, wherein there was the leg of beaver, and desired all the nations to 
come to it; to eat in peace and plenty, and not to be churlish to one 
another: and that if any person should be found to be a disturber, I 
here lay down by the edge of the dish a rod, which you must scourge 
them with ; and if your father should get foolish, in my old days, I de- 
sire you may use it upon me as well as others. — Now, fathers, it is 
you who are the disturbers in this land by coming and building your 
towns, and taking it away unknown to us, and by force. 

We kindled a fire, a long time ago, at a place called Montreal, where 
we desired you to stay, and not come and intrude upon our land. I 
now desire you may despatch to that place ; for, be it known to you, 
fathers, that this is our land, and not yours— I desire you may hear 
me in civilness ; if not, we must handle that rod which was laid down 
for the use of the obstreperous. If you had come in a peaceable 
manner, like our brothers the English, we would not have been against 
your trading with us, as they do ; but to come, fathers, and build houses 
upon our land, and to take it by force, is what we cannot submit to. — 
Drake v. p. 21 — see note on page 308, ante. 



588 APPENDIX. 

pendent upon them, to enter into a separate and private treaty with 
them, by which they, the i<hawancse and Ddawarcs had agreed not only 
to permit the trench to take possession of the country upon the Ohio, 
as far as they would, but to assist them against the English, if their 
aid should be found nocessary in the contest, which the taking posses- 
sion of that country should occasion. 

That in consequence of this secret treaty, and upon the persuasion 
of the French, who have acquired a considerable Influence over those 
two tribes, they had fallen upon the English and done the mischief 
complained of without any just reason or cause that we know of, or 
ever heard of. That the Shawanese indeed pretend that the impri- 
sonment of some of their chiefs in South Carolina, is the cause of 
their conduct; but we look upon that as mere pretence, as those chiefs 
were released upon the application of the government of Pennsylva- 
nia and by them returned in safety to their nation. — Gave a belt. 

Brethren — In answer to that part of your speech, desiring our advice 
upon the present critical state of your affairs, we can only say, that 
we are ready and willing to give you our best advice and assistance. 
But you have sent messages to the Six Nations in their great council. 
We think it more prudent to wait for theirs, that we may know their 
resolutions, and this we are rather inclined to, as we ourselves by 
your messengers Scarrooyady and Montour sent a message of our own 
to enforce yours, and giving thereby our sentiments to the united coun- 
cil. And we would not have you uneasy at not receiving an answer, 
for the season of the year is bad, and the members of the great coun- 
cil live remote from each other, and require time to get together. 

Then the Belt spoke as a warrior. 

Brethren— We are sorry our number is not greater, but few as we 
are, we are all warriors, and at your service whenever you call upon 
us, and as the French are the cause of it, we esteem them our ene- 
mies, and shall, whenever you think proper severely revenge it upon 
them. The ensuing spring may furnish us with a favorable opporia- 
nity, when we shall gladly join and assist you against them.^ g, 

January 17, 1756, same present. 

The Old Belt, addressing (himself to the Governor and, people of 
Pennsylvania, in behalf of themselves and the government of Vir- 
ginia, and holding a stick with an Indian scalp and two b^s of wam- 
pum tied at the end of it said : 

Brethren — We now by this belt of wampum put you in mind of 
your message of condolence sent us on the death of Tanachrisson 
(the Half-King); and as he was accounted by us a ruler both among 
the warriors as well as in council matters, you said right that his death 
had greatly afl'ected us all. We take your message of condolence v<-ry 
kind and return you our thanks, for the regard you have shown us in 
sending us that message, and as his death was occasioned by our ene- 
my, the French, driving him from the lands he was settled on near the 
Ohio, we sent out some of our warriors, at two difTerent limes to re- 
venge ourselves on them, either by taking some prisoners or scalps on 
his account, but by some accident they were disappointed going through 
their journey. Yet we have by your assistance fortunately taken one 
of these Indian enemies nearer home, and now inform you, that we 
think it very proper that your message of condolence for our brother's 
death should be sent by you, by way of New York, over the Mohock's 



APPENDIX. 589 

country to the Six United Nations, and to their several towns ; and 
we have agreed to join with you in this message, and to send this scalp 
(lately taken from our enemy, who was, as we have mentioned, the 
occasion of our friend's death) ; and in order to confirm our said mes- 
sage, have joined with your belt, another of our own, in order to com- 
tort and ease the hearts of the Six Nations, and to let them know that 
our said brother's death did not pass unnoticed, or was forgotten by us. 
Then he delivered the Governor the belts and scalp, lied together* 
and proceeded: * 

Brethren— As we cannot tell how far our enemy may incline to ex- 
tend their claim to the lands in these parts, we desire you would im- 
mediately take possession of, and build a fort at Shamokin, lest they, 
who are a cunning, designing people, should take possession before 
you, and prevent you. And we desire also that you would place some 
proper person to live always there to manage Indian affairs, (mention- 
ing Conrad Weiser, or in case of his refusal, some other proper per- 
son) that we may have him to advise with in all difficult matters, and 
that this may be a place of refuge in times of distress for us, our wives 
and children to fly to for safety, and be also a security for you, and 
prevent their taking those lands to themselves. 

The Belt also acquainted the Governor, that as they had been at a 
loss for some proper house to come to, when they came among the in- 
habitants, they had agreed among themselves for the future, To make 
use of William Blythe's, in this town, and had now brought him into 
council with them, and requested the governor would consent to it, 
and that William BIythe might take upon him Jagrea's (the Indian) 
name, in order to direct any of their brethren, the Indians, at their se- 
veral towns, whose house to enquire for, when they came to see their 
brethren of Pennsylvania. And as we may want, on some occasions, 
to send you a message from the Indian country, and we having adop- 
ted Thomas Graeme, who is now among us, as a warrior, we now in- 
form you that we have given him the name of Koss-how-wev-ha • 
(Newcastle's Indian name), and Newcastle we call Ah-knoy-is, for 
the fulu md Jagrea, Sata-ka-roy-is. And to confirm, gave a sirin<r 
of wampum. " 

The Governor then acquainted the Belt, and other Indians, that he 

• It was n hing uncommon among the Indians to confer their names 
upon whites, and those whom they adopted. At Fort Stanwix, I was 
present, says Richard Peters, when the Delawares and Sha'wanese 
were released by the Iroquois, or Six Nations, (originally five) from 
the subordination in which they had been held from the time of their 
having been conquered. The ceremony was called taking ojf th, ptttx- 
coat, and was a curious spectacle. When I was adopted into the fam- 
ily of a Tuscarora chief, at the time of the treaty of Fort Stanwix, he 
made me a speech, in the style used on such occasions, in which he 
assured me of his atfection ; and added, that he was pleased with my 
being " one of the young people of the country of the much respected 
and highly esteemed Onas :" which means a quill or pe^i. He gave to 
me one of his names — Tegochtias. [Letter to R. Vaux. 

David Zeisberger,a Moravian missionary,was among the Indians from 
1746 to 1808, the day of his death— had the name of Ga-nous-se-rach- 
e-ry conferred upon him by the tawny sons of the woods. 

50 



590 



APPENDIX. 



joined with them in sending the message of condolence to the Six 
United Nations, and in their manner of doing it, and should very soon 
lorward it by way of New York, to their several towns, and should 
also, at their request, make immediate provision for building a strong 
house at Shamokin, and that he should desire, and depend on their 
assistance in guarding the men, he should send on that account from 
any attacks of our enemy Indians. 

He then told him, he approved of their choice of BIythe's house, 
and their exchanging his name with Jagrea's, and their choice of Tho- 
mas Graeme, and the exchange of his name with Koss-how-ey-ha. 

He then acquainted them, he had in behalf of the brethren of Penn- 
sylvania, provided a present for them, in these distressing times,which 
he should deliver them to-morrow, and accordingly, it was delivered 
in the presence of the governor and commissioners the next day. 
• Monday, 19th January, 1756 — Present, same as before. 

Last night the late Half-King's son, Johnny, and a Nanticoke Indian 
called Johnny, came to town, deputed, as they said, to make the excuse 
of the White Mingo and other Indians, for not waiting on the governor, 
being in the midst of their hunting; but Mr. Croghan says, that they 
are well disposed, yet they would not come because of the difference 
subsisting between the White Mingo and the Old Belt. 

The governor sent for Johnny and John King, and the other Indians 
into council, and spoke to them in these words : 

Brethren — I desire you will impart with the two Indians who are 
sent by the White Mingo and others, as deputies to represent them 
here, all that has passed between you and me. What was said by me, 
was meant for them as well as you; and, indeed, all our friendly Indi- 
ans ought to be made acquainted with it, as you shall see them and find 
opportunity to speak to them. Then the governor addressed himself 
to Johnny and John King ; expressed a great deal of satisfaction at 
seeing them, and hearing that the White Mingo and the other Indians 
were in health and well disposed ; and said that he accepted their ex- 
cuse, and as he was obliged to visit the other pans of the province, he 
had ordered the Indians now present to communicate to them what 
had passed in the several conferences, that they might inform those 
that sent them of it, and had likewise reserved for them, as he expect- 
ed to see them, a present of equal value with what was given to the 
other Indians. 

The governor then proceeded in his speech to all the Indians. 
Brethren — It will be some time before the lort can be finished at 
Shamokin, and till then you may reside at one or other of the forts 
now building, or at Harris's, or at Conestogo Manor, and I desire you 
will make your choice, that the necessaries may be provided for you, 
at the place you shall choose. 

If you incline to live at, or near the forts, you may hunt ai the same 
time, and I have directed the officers to give you two pence a pound for 
all the venison you shall deliver at any of the forts, and to be just and 
kind to you in any dealings you may have together. 

Brethren — Mr. Weiser and Mr. Croghan have something from us to 
confer with you about ; you will regard what they say, as if spoken by 
me, and I expect you will be ready to execute whatsoever shall be re- 
quired of you for the public service at this time. 

I now take my leave of you, heartily wishing you health and all 
manner of prosperity. 



APPENDIX. 



591 



The Indians thanked the governor for his kind speech, promised to 
communicate to the two deputies the particulars of their several con- 
ferences — mistook the governor, as if he had offered them their choice 
of the forts, Harris's and Conestoga Manor to live always at for the 
future, and therefore besought the governor to excuse them from living 
at any other place than Shamokin, and renewed their request to him 
to begin to build a strong fort there as soon as possible.that they might 
go there and dwell in safety^ but he set them right, by telling them that 
he desired them to chose one of these places to live at till the fort 
should be built and no longer, and they chose Harris's. 

Memorandum, 
Mr. Peters, who staid behind the commissioners, found Johnny and 
John King very much disgusted at their not being more particularly 
taken notice of, and rewarded for their trouble, in going with a mes- 
sage from Mr. Croghan to the Indians who were hunting, and now com- 
ing to Carlisle. Whereupon, he sent for them, and by the advice of 
Mr. Logan, who was not gone out of town, Mr. Weiser and Mr. Crog- 
han, he gave them each five pieces, and told them he was left to do 
this, and to confer with them, and ask their news ; which, as the gov- 
ernor before they came had fixed on the several stages ol his journey, 
and could not then alter them, was showing them all the respect pos- 
sible. On this they expressed great satisfaction, entered freely into 
discourse, and John King being a little merry, began to be open, and 
in the course of his conversation, discovered a transaction between 
the Delaware, who was sr t to the Ohio (Jo Hickman) and him, and 
averred positively, that he solicited him to strike the English, and 
when he refused, he upbraided him with cowardice and being a wo- 
man ; and said further, that the White Mingo was going out of these 
parts, and, as he said, to Onexquago, to be out of the way. 

M.—The mother of Regina was a native of Reutlinger, Wirtemberg, 
Germany. She and her husband had immigrated to America prior to 
the French war, and located in the upper part of Lancaster county. 
The family were members of the Lutheran congregation, under the 
pastoral charge of the Revd. Kurtz of Tuipehocken. Regina and her 
older sister, Barbara, were abducted Oct. 16, 1755. Regina was only 
8 years of age at the time. After they had been taken about 400 miles, 
they were separated, never to see each other again ! Their sufferings 
and privations may be imagined more easily than described. After 
Regina had been restored to her mother, they both paid the Reverend 
Muhlenberg a visit, in the month of February, 1765. Touching as the 
incidents related in this occasion are, want of space precludes a de- 
tailed account of them. 

iV.— Sometime in March, 1768, Generals Butler and Parsons, two 
of the commissioners for Indian affairs in the northern and middle de- 
partment of the United States, from the Big Miami, where they had 
concluded a treaty of peace with the Shawnee nation of Indians ; in a 
few days afterward, March 28th, a principal Seneca chief, with five 
young men of his nation arrived; and on the evening of the 30th, the 
"inhabitants and the strangers assembled in the court house, on which 
occasion Captain O'Bail, the chief, addressed General Butler, as fol- 
lows : 



592 



APPENDIX. 



Brother,— The representative of the Thirteen Fires (United States) 
and all present, I ciesire you to listen ! 

Yesterday you heard my words — I told you my mind upon some sub- 
jects; bull promised to unbosom myself fully to you to day. This 
island was once mine. The ground upon which we now stand, for- 
merly belonged to my people. Hearken to my words, brother — for I 
am now about to divulge to you the cause of my distress — the cause 
of the uneasiness which I told you hung heavy upon my mind. 

Brother, — I have heard from the British, that you have concluded a 
treaty with the nations westward ; — although I was so informed — yet 
my mind could not be quieted — I therefore came among other things, 
to satisfy myself of what had been done between you and those nations. 

Brother, — Listen! although I joined the arms of the Great King,* 
and assisted him in his war against you, I have now relinquished all 
connection with him — I am not afraid of him, or of what he can do to 
me. A string. 

Brother, — If you remember, in the old councils the Great King told 
ns, that the French had relinquished all their claim to this country to 
him. Perhaps the writings by which they did that still remain in your 
possession: — those writings I am desirous of seeing. A string. 

Brother, — My people were the old inhabitants of this island — it be- 
comes us both to join our endeavors to prevent injuries from befalling 
it — to ward off the disturbance which promise, belore it be long, to dis- 
tress us — our women — and our little ones. As for me — my life is short 
— 'tis already sold to the Great King. — Let us unite our strength, that 
we may be strong. — Let us live in friendship, that we may be able to 
prevent all people from doing us an injury. A string. 

Brother, — Once more hearken to me ! I fear I tire your patience ; — 
but as the business upon which we have met is good — listen to me pa- 
tiently, while I declare to you all my sentiments. I wish to see what 
hath been done with the other nations to the west — that every thing may 
be clear to us. The Great Spirit above direct us! — and I am con- 
vinced that whatever is said or done is good and right. Let us. Bro- 
ther, implore his assistance — Let us be tied together in friendship — 
Encircle us within yourselves — that none may dare lo provoke either 
of us, or to offer insult or injury to either parly. A belt. 

[Agreeably to O'Bail's desire, the definite treaty of peace with Great 
Britain ; that article of the treaty of alliance with France, which con- 
tains a renunciation of all claims to the country, within the limits of 
the United States, as described in the definite treaty aforesaid; the 
treaty at Fort M'Intosh, with the Wiandois, Delawares, Ottawas and 
Chippawas; and that at the Miami with the Shawanee nations were 
produced.] Whereupon General Butler addressed O'Bail, in answer 
to his speech as follows. 

Brother, — It is with happiness I hear the sentiments which you have 
expressed. — As to the information which you desired, I shall give it to 
you with satisfaction, and as full as it may be in my power. 

What you mention of this country having belonged to your people, 
is unnecessary for us to go into an examination or explanation of; 
these matters were settled by and between our forefathers in a friend- 
ly manner, before we were born — but with respect to the means by 

• Alluding to the King of England. 



APPENDIX. 



593 



which ihe United Stales are become the sovereigns and owners of this 
country, I will now inform you:— Twenty and more years agone the 
King of England and the King of France went to war about the right 
to this territory, and after they had fought a long time, a treaty of peace 
was concluded between these two powers, by which the King of France 
ceded his right to this country to the King of England.— Twelve years 
ago, when the King of England made war on the Thirteen Fires (U. S.) 

The King of France, willing to shew his friendship to the United 

States, joined their arms against him, and took them by the hand as 
brothers, and relinquished to them all the claim he ever had to this 
country— The United States having conquered the British King, he 
eeded to them all the territory which we have described to you as con- 
tained in the definite treaty of peace, concluded between Great Britain 
and the United Stales, which we read to you at Fort Stanwix, which I 
now hold in my hand, and will again explain to you here if you desire 
it. 

When we thus, by the prowess olour arms, became possessed of all 
those lands, no people within our boundaries had any right; yet the 
United States commiserated the situation of the Indians ; and instead 
of driving them beyond the Great Lakes from their old places of habi- 
tation, they offered them peace, friendship and protection, and lands 
for themselves and their families to live and hunt on. 

In return for this clemency, they only require, on the part of the In- 
dians, a strict adherence to their engagements. They have settled 
boundary lines between the United States, the Wian<'ots, Delawares, 
Ottawas and Chippawas, by a treaty at Fort M'Intosh, and the Shaw- 
ance nation by a treaty at the Miami river, which we have lately con. 
eluded. — They have proffered the same kindness to all the other na- 
tions, whose acceptance, we doubt not, will take place so soon as they 
will be able to dispel the clouds of delusion which hang over them — 
and to see their true interest. I promise you that while there is honor 
or faith in the United States, the engagements which have, or hereafter 
may be entered into with the Indian nations, will be most punctually 
complied with. In testimony of what I have mentioned to you, I here 
produce to you the papers, which record the transactions which have 
taken place between the United States and your's and other nations. 
Here the different treaties were shown. 

It»hall be our constant endeavors to preserve a friendly intercourse 
between your nations and the Thirteen Fires, so long as they preserve 
their faith with us. I approve of your going on to Congress, as I think 
the measure argues the goodness of your intentions, and shews us that 
you are sincere. 

O'Bail again replied. 

Brother, — I yesterday told you of the trouble which oppressed me — 
I feel myself as just awaked from a dream— for I begin now to consid- 
er the future lot of my little ones, and reflect with anger on the decep- 
tions practised on us by the Great King over the water. I assisted him 
— fought his battles — while he sat quietly in his forts — nor did I ever 
suspect that so great a person — and onr who wore a red cout — sufficient of 
itself to tempt people, could be guilty of such palpable injustice — of 
such glaring falsehood. — My reason for telling you that this island 
would soon be disturbed is, that I am determined to avenge the injuries 
which I and my people have sustained from the King. He hath al- 

50* 



594 



APPENDIX. 



ready begun to settle his people on the lands beyond the river, opposite 
to Niagara. Those buildings nor settlements shall remain. I will go 
peaceably to him and will desire him to move off— This request I will 
repeat calmly to him three times — if he will not then decamp, I am re- 
solved to strike him, and hence will flow these inquietudes which I 
mentioned. A string. 

Brother,— When we have settled all matters fully, my desire is, that 
Congress appoint seven of you, which I will take by the hand and lead 
you to our council fire at the Jenessee ; there you will discover the truth 
of what I say to you, and that I am sent with authority by my people. 
A string. 

Brother, — I now take this string to strengthen your hearts — I repeat 
my desire that we should join our lorce together, by which means we 
shall be able to accomplish all our ends, and to drive the Great King 
quite away. I request you to make all these things known to the 
Great Council — where I wish to see you as soon as possible, as we 
ccnnot do our business unless you be present. A string. 

To which General Butler replied. 

That he could not answer to Captain O'Bail's last requisitions — 
That the duty of the commissioners was to make peace, &c. with the 
Indian nations, and that the right of making^ war remained alone in 
Congress — that he would carefully transmit to Congress all which he 
said upon the subject. A string. 

It must give great satisfaction to every lover of peace to find the dis- 
position of the late hostile part of the Six Northern Nations much 
changed in favor of the United States, since the treaty of Fort Stanwix, 
in Oct. 1784, and shew to the frontier inhabitants of Pennsylvania and 
New York, the propriety and good policy of cultivating the friendship 
of, and living on a good footing with these nations. 

Extract of a letter from a gentleman in Bedford to his acquaintance in 
this borough, dated March 27th, 1786. 
Last evening 1 had the honor to be introduced to Captain' O'Bail, or 
Cornplanter, the Chief of the Senecas, one of the Six Nations, a young 
Chief or Captain of their warriors, and four young men, in company 
with Major Montgomery, on his return from the treaty, and Mr. Joseph 
Nicholson their interpreter. I was delighted with their easy address 
and natural politeness. A great number of the inhabiiants ol this 
place waited upon them ; some out of curiosity, and others to pay their 
respects to them. I understand they are now on their way to Congress 
at New York, to manifest their pacific disposition towards the Ameri- 
cans. 



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Wm Jack clerk H R 
Hon Alexan'r Ramsey 
Wm P Beatty jr 
A Ingram book agent 
EC Williams 
Wm Ayres Esq 
Wm Thompson barb'r 
Thomas H Musselman 
John B Tomlinson 
Solomon Lyter 
Jacob Shaffher 
Samuel Shartzer 
Wra M Smith 
Gilman Converse 
J S Stehley 

Josh D Johnson barber 
Jacob Smith barber 
Chas J Dorris barber 
S D Karnes Esq 
Henry Bradley barber 
Prof Wm H Robinson 
Andrew Hocker 
Zebulon Damery 
J R Eby 
Patrick Findley 
Daniel Leedy 
Benjamin Jackson 
Wm McClung 
Geo P Thale 
Joseph J Wettmer 

HIGHSPIRE. 

George Garman 
Robert Wilson Esq 
Henry Fogle 
Frederick Yake 
Peter Woolf 
John Weaver 
Jacob Nisley 



596 



NAMES OF SUBSCRIBERS. 



Henry Woolf 
Daniel Sener 
Charlps Ritierspock 
Henry Kling 

HANOVER TWP. 
Wm Houtze M D 
John Focht 
Thomas Barrutt, 
Elias H Pletz 
John M Kaule jr 
Amos Hicks 
Abm Balsbaugh 
E E Kinzer 
Jacob Hughs 
John Painter 
Andrew Koser 
Thomas Boyer 
A Sturgeon 
John Diller 
David Umberger 
Moses Meader 
Peter Heckhart 
David Wolour 
S Mcllhenny jr 
John Bollinger 
Geo McManaway 
John Lentz 
Geo Hocker 
Philip Harcleroth 
David D Sheets 
J Brandstool D D 
Eph D McCauley 
Henry Blessing 
Noah Earley 
John Yefter jr 
S B Fleming Esq 
J M Rank 
Amos Z French 



James McClerg 
John Shell 

Henry Shellenburger jr 
Frederick Rent 
David Glassbrener 

PAXTON TP. 
R W McClure Esq 
Wm R Cowden 
James Gilchrist 
Jacob Pattiger 
F W Fritchig 
H B Fox 
John Miller 
John Mader 
Daniel Wenrich 
Benjamin Reem 
Samuel S Finney 
Jacob D Saul 
David Reicherl 
David Caesel 

SUSQUEHANNA TP. 
Isaac G Updegrove 
Josiah Espy 
E & A Trisler 
John Witmoyer 
Enos Michael 

DERRY TP. 

Geo Stoufler jr 
Amos Sherizer 
John Zerfuss 
Jacob Wain 
John Lutz 
Jacob Witman 
J Corpman Dauphin tp 
Abram Freaner Esq 
Abraham Henry 



JaCob Hocker 
Daniel Baum jr 
Michael Bomgardner 
John Stauffer 
David Best 
Wm Clendenin 
Joseph Hogendobler 
Wm Ruth 
John M Bisser 
John St Laman 
Jacob Flowers 
Christian Hersbey 
Geo Solladay 
John Freshinger 
Samuel Hail 
Geo Balsbaugh 
Peter Fishburn 

LONDONDERRY TP. 
Jacob Kauffman 
Christian Falls 
Jacob Stacks 
John Boozer 
Isaac Hopper 
Leond Selzer 
Jacob Shaffer 
Samuel Keiper 
John Gingrich 
John Smith 
John Lynch 
J Noringer,Middlelown 
S McElletrick do 
S Zimmerman.Swaiara 
Mount Vernon Lancas- 
ter county. 
John M Fague 
Jacob D Feltenberger 
Isaac Leggore 



Cumberland County. 



CARLISLE. 
RevE J Newlin 
Rev T V Moore 
Jesse Powell 
Rev. John N Hoffman 
H L Burkholder 
Rev J A Gere 
W M Beetem Esq 
Joseph S Gitl 



Frederick Walts Esq 

Wm Holmes 

J Holsaple 

E Beatly 

Capt J M Washington 

George Jacobs 

W H Trout 

A Roberts 

John M Gregg 



H J Meek 
S D Heard 
Samel C Irwin 
Wm Parks 
David Cormany 
T H Skiles 
Wesley Miles 
Rev Henry Aurand 
Henry Myers 



NAMES OF SUBSCRIBERS. 



597 



CARLISLE. 

Thos H Criswell 
Bratton & Boyer 
D R Little 
John A Holsaple jr 
Stephen Keepers 
John W Hendle 
Tobias Miller 
John Goodyear 
W R Line 
Wm Breeze 
C Imhoff 
Martin Gorman 
Francis Porter 
Ephraim Zug 
John Arney 
F A Kennedy 
David Brown 
Jacob Shrom 
JM Allen 
Alfred Moore 
Benj J Baker 
George Reily 
M G Ege 

PAPERTOWN. 

Wm B Mullin Esq 
Thomas H Zell 
Mathew Moore, Esq. 
James Dougherty 
Joseph Feterold 
M M Ege 
M PEge 
John Leib 

S. MIDDLETON TP 
Jacob L Glass 
John Nelly 
GD Craighead 
Benjamin Gibler 
Holmes A Patterson 
John Hyer 
Jacob Nossinger 
Jacob Sheaffer 
Samuel Diller 
Alvah Morse 
John Brenner 
Reuben B KaufTman 
Henry Bowman 
Christian WoU 
Christian Pislu 
John Myers 
Samuel & Geo Epley 



John Hemminger 

I>sac Gorgas 

Wm & Dav Winekoop 

Henry Heage 

Wm Barnitz 

James A Moore 

MONROE TP. 
James Crockett 
George Beltzhoover 
John D Zell 
John B Eberly 

CHURCHTOWN. 
Singiser & Paul 
Richard Anderson 
D Grablei&M Morrett 
Adam Gensler 
John Messinger 
Moses Bricker 
.Tohn Zinn 
L W Weaver 
Geoige Brindle 
Martin Houser 
Samuel Myers 
David Myers 
Levi Dornbach 
Geo W Ringwalt 
E Young Esq 
jesse Young 
Jacob Ebersole 
Michael Mishler 
Peter Stombach 
George P Arnold 
Daniel Y Kline 
. Jacob Planck jr 
G W Bricker 
Joseph Bucher 
David Basehore 

N. MIDDLETON TP. 
Elias Brenneman 
jacob Bauman 
Wendle Hull 
Adam Dean 
Emanuel Line 
Charles Duffy 

MECHANICSBURG. 

Isaac Kinsey 
J Weaver M D 
A H Van HoffMD 
benjamin Brubaker 



Augustus Sprigman 
Ira Day M D 

J Dorsheimer Esq 
John Swisher 
Adam Riegel 
Col J Ingram 
Wm C Houser 
Jacob S Zink 
Simon Drisbach 
james Bryen 
Dr John F Fosteij^Ship- 
pensburg 

ALLEN TP. 
Henry Wiser 
Wm Howe 
C Tilzel 
Henry G Rupp 
Abraham Coble 
1 hos Craighead Esq 
Frederick Renninger 
David Miller . 
David Sheffer 
Daniel Maust 
Jacob Baringer 
john B Coover Esq 
jonas Moore 
john Dunlap 
Jacob B Trever 
Henry Gusler 
John Henry Saxton 
john Bowman 
Wm Gingrich 
George Shisler 
james Mateer 
Wm Mateer 
J R jimeson 
John Irey 
Evan Russel 
Abraham Horst 

LISBURN. 

Jacob Heck 
John G Miller 
john Shaw 

DICKINSON TP. 

john S. Mayhugh 
Thos Lee 
Abraham Myers 
Daniel Shumaker 
A G Miller 
J C Chambers 



598 



NAMES OF SUBSCRIBERS. 



DICKINSON 

jaraes Weakly 
R H D Woods Esq 
George Martin 
Frederick Kieffer 
jacob Shoemaker 
Samuel ^pangler 
James W Moore 
James H Hannan 
Samuel Fisher 
James White 
R S C^ole 
Samuel Beetem jr 
Wm Vance 
Daniel Jacobs 
james Oliver 
Philip Parlet 



TP. 



Wm Lunan 
John none 

SPRINGFIELD. 

Daniel Sweigert 
L K Hoch 
josiah Hood 
john Hower 
Thomas Duffy 
David Brand 
Peter Faust 

STOUGHSTOWN. 
Michael Ruby 
Thomas Gray 
A E Johnston 
james McCune 



HARRISBURG 

Daniel Wih 
Samuel Bryan jr 

CARLISLE. 
E L Walker 
John Keeny 
John C Wolf 
William Harly 
J Hurd 
jacob Souder 
Jonathan Neidig 
Daniel Hoffer 
Christian Gleen 
John A Hake 



Abraham Seaver 
james Ready 
Urn iiarrir 
Paul Martin 



CENTREVILLE. 

John Hocker 
Revd C F Kunkel 
O McClean 
James P Woods 
Abraham Kurtz 
Wm Greglow 
John Keller 
Samuel Allen 
Francis C McColloch 
Jacob Hemminaer 
Wm Shriver Esq 
W & J Beecher 
James Logan 

James Kyle jacksonvillMichael Songsdorf 
john Wise 



CUMBERLAND. 
Wm D Sponsler 
BIGPOND FURNACEGeo W Swiler 



Wm M Walker 
Joshua Giber 
Peter B Gingrick 
B M Haitman 
John Snavely 
NEWBURG. B «fe A Martin 
J M Means Esq Jacob G Rupp 

Samuel Sentiman joseph Ball 

Adam Frehm Carlisle Wm O Banks 
Samuel Hale ShircHoivn Samuel Skalferk 
Jacob Simmons 
SHIREMANSTOWN A Bosler 



Alen Top 



Joseph Sheirman 
Michael Wise 



LEESBURG. 

Wm Clark 
Henry A Mackey 
Joseph A Maxwell 
David M Gray 
Wtn M Snyder 
Jeremiah Phahes 
Michael j Heffleman 

Samuel Snell 
SOUTHJMPTONTP. William S Powell 
Henry b Hock W H Bohl Esq 

Dewalt Pislee H Kamerer 

John Beattee B C Hopkins 

Daniel Trexler Fra co Benjamin H Mosser 

Levi Zerby 
WEST PENNSBORO. David Snavely 
Dr Isaac Lefever Wm P Hughes 

Markus Allen 
Joseph Peirce 



/ohn Wilson 
Joseph McGuire 
Jeremiah L V\ ise 
Charles Wilber 
David w Drinbaugh 



J Dunlap and j Houser B Erie 
D G Rupp John Bumgardner 

Levi Merkel Felix Swiger 

jehu Harman Geo Shealer 

H K Randolph 
NEWCUMBERLANDWm Turbeit 

James Greenwood 
Eberly & Glauser 
Henry Rinehart 
James Anderson 
Peter Bricker 
Benjamin Haverstick 
Jacob Eminger 
Christian Albert 
John R Rinehart 
John Emminger 
Daniel Coffmaa 



NAMES OP SUBSCRIBERS. 



599 



Lewis Bricker 
Jacob Firoveid 
John Zearing 
Daniel W Miller 
John Hippie 
john Nininger 
Geo Will 
D Voillsing 
wm Saxten 
Samuel Culp 
Adam Eslinger 
Amos AUeman 
john Sheets 
Geo Rupley 

Abraham Stigelman 
Elizabeth Ruby 
Levi Line 

john whild 

joim Miller 
David Brenizer 
john C Ecklea 

Philip wevierham 

P A bmith 

john R Neisly 

Adam Hocker 
' john Grimes 

Abramam Hetterick 

Samuel Rhodes 

Levi E Martin — 

john wolf 

John earmand 

Robert L Clark 

David Reed 

wra Lippert 

M C Davis 

Philip Zeigler jr 

Mathias Hahn 

H Breniser 

Samuel Dilier 

Christian wolf 

Isaac Kerns 

Geo Koset 

Simon Alter 

Abraham Thumd 

Levi D Smith 

John Bloser, Cum 

ExGovjos Ritner M 

John ereider 

wm Heffelbower 

john work 

G€o Reighler 

James Brounz 

wm Siyder 



Hugh M Duncan 

NEWVILLE. 
A J North 
David Markwood 
Archy Brecker 
John G Barr 
J Buskhest 
wm Hoot 
Jacob Bender 
Jacob Nayler 
John waggoner 
Samuel Rhoades 
Joseph Otto 
S Coyle 
Dr A Rankin 
Dr John willson 
Thos A McKinney 
John Dodge 
D Dunlap 
will Critzer 
John w Davidson 
John Reeber 
David Shellaberger 
wm D Hume 
Robert McFarlan 
Henry Souder 
Cornelius Jacobs 
Abraham Myres 
Samuel Hisner 
James P McKeehan 
Ezekiel walker 
Joseph Smith 
jehu Randol 

PETERSBURG 
Wm irHamersly 
PFm Humphrey 
Levi Pitkin 
J D TFarley 
Phebe Parsons 
Samuel Shelley 
Samuel Kettlewell 
john Welsh 
Franklin TFireman 
Rufus irut 
R Joseph Wireman 
H IFireman 
J P Starry 
Joseph A IFireman 
Henry Peters 
David Ifeaver 
William Deihl 



jacob Wenlz 
Jonathan Sifert 
Jeremiah A Alabaugh 
John A Cline 
Francis Little 
Antony F Adams 
Samuel Siormbach 
Daniel oitt 
Francis Krichton 
Thomas McClaine 
Jacob wortz 
W Buely 
Isaac Myres 
Amos Zuck 
Henry Myres 
Lilly & Reily 
Robert Mcllwain 
Samuel weikert 
John Hemler 
Joseph Clunk jr 
Joseph Little 
Jacob Adams 
Isaac Leightener 
wm Slifer 
Daniel F Bair 
Joseph Riffle 
John Ralm 
Joseph Arnlz 
John Plum 
Jacob wrungman 
C F Dilier 
Alphus Dilier 
Geo Eckenrodes 
Joseph Martin 
John Blecher 
John Coulsan 
Philip Beamer jr 
Samuel Bender 
Henry Lower ^ 
C Hemler 
Emanuel Bricker 

MJYSBURG TP. 
David j Walter 
Jeremiah Slaybauch 
Geo Breubaugh 
John b Wright 
Charles S wright 
Doct Joseph N Smith 
Samuel Sadler 
j weaver 
David Hoffman 
John Jacobs 



600 



NAMES OF SUBSCRIBERS. 



MJYSBVRG TP 
Michael Leer 
Gibson E Myres 
Henry Jacobs 
Adam Sours 
E Albert 
H W Caufman 
Jacob C bender 
John berkholder 
Daniel Rozer 
Robert bell jr 
Geo A Jacobs 
John b Galbreath 
Robert V Mcllhenny 
w F waiter 
John F Felty 
Samuel F Neely 
Geo Ehuhart 
James Dickson 
wm Henry 
Geo Minnigh 
Jacob Fogelsonger 
James Henderson 
David Hayes 
George Price 
Christopher An 
Samuel wagoner 
Henry Hursh 
J V Haines 



wm jRigley 
Jacob Fisler 
Joseph R McBride 
John Rupp 
Joseph Ruply 
Robert S M'Lure 
John Cox 
wm Culp 
John Pye 
Ephrawn Fry 
wm M Seouller 
Henry Rupp 
Charles S Jiutler 
Garret Clark 
Adam Bear 
F A Master 
Jared Hanes 

SHIPPENSBURG 
John McCurdy 
Dr wm Rankin 
J Peal 

Dr Alphuas Dale 
Charles Baker 
Samuel Murrett 
wm A Kelso 
James Gillard 
James w Bay, 
J T Williams 



Elias Hosh 
Dr. A Stewart 
R P McClure Esq 
John Fulweler 
John Dick 
James Couden 
John M Leidig 
/ A Clippinger 
John Craul 
George Humel 
Jacob Newmer 
John Kingsly 

GETTYSBURG 
John Cress 
D Zeigler 
Solomon Dowers 
Samuel S Forney 
Jacob Meals 
William Norbeck 
]■ Traynor 
Leaned Stouch 
Samuel Logan 
Michael Rupp 
Thomas F Frazer 
Geo Yeagy 
F Ralur 



Jidams County. 

(.GETTYSBURG. John Sellers 
Hon James Cooper James M Rowzee 
John H Brighley Henry Rheem 

Thomas McCreary EsqJohn Polly 
Rev S S Schmucker F W Dinwiddie 
Hon Moses McCealn Jacob Leedy 
John H McClellan Esq Martin VVarren 
H J Schriener Esq Robert Sheads 
Wm McSherry Esq Robert G Harper 
Rev Charles A Hay H J Stable 
Jacob Kuhn J L Schick 

Daniel M Smyser Esq H Tiltis 
A Bosserman Michael Rupp 

J B McPherson Esq J H Reed Esq 
Samuel P Diver 



Robert Cobean Esq 
D A Buehier Esq 
John D Baker 
T Warren 



PETERSBURG. 
Wm W Hamersly 
Benj F Gardner 
John Gardner 



Jesse John 
Jesse Gardner 
Wm Humphrey Esq 
Samuel A Neely 
Fletcher Beal 
David Beal 
Albert Wolford 
Arnold Gardner 
L Franklin Myers 
Albert Miller 
John Troup 
George Deardorff 
Samuel Hollinger 
Joel Griost 
Geo Harman 
Rachel D Harman 
Wm Wright 
Wm Hunt 
Man. Griest 



• NAMES OF yUBSCRlCKIiSr, 
JOHXSTOWA. 



Rev. Jacob Riiter 
Rev Peter Sahm 
James Potts Esq 
A Morrison Esq 
John VV Barns 
John Lowman M D 
David Hite Esq 
John Mesene 
J Marbourg P M 
A Marbourg' 
Wm P Pa Hon 
Rev Tobias Mullin 
Frs W Hay 
S Bracken 
Z Curren 
Geo Saylor 
Wm Orr 
Geo Mann 
J C Strayer 
James Sliarp jr 
Joseph D VValiier 
Geo Nixon 
Peter Leear 
Jacob R Stull 
M F Marshall 
John O'Rourk 
John T Smith 
R B Gageby 
John Leilenburger 
David Lucas 
Luke Mathes 
Rev. 5'amuel Swan 



H D Jackson 
Joseph Moore 
Samuel Williams 
Levi Reahm 
R Constanline 
F Tesh 

R S Keatly 
Wm F Paxton 
Horace B Kiddell 
A W Dillon 
Jenkin Jones 
Joseph Layton 
Henry Layton Esq 
Robert McKeage 
Edward Irwin 
Jesse Patterson, Sh 
Nathan W Hortoii 
Henry Sutton 
Hon, John Murray 
Adam Rose 
Steele S Williams 
Wm VVoods 
Samuel Cover 
Michael Karney 
G W Cingley 
Geo Glass 
Henry Peden 
Geo McLaughlin 
F Wm Scheafer 
Charles Smith 
fi'm Prier 
Isaac Simpson 



Rev. Valentine LucasJesse Layton 
Henry Klinefelter Joseph Farnswarth 
Elijah (St T J Butler AF Foster, Editor 



Peter Garling 
Andrew Borekert 
David Kopelin 
Cyrus Riley 
J^T Lemon 
Charles Ellis 
ffm Hughes 
Gottleib Treflz 
John Rileys, 
John rFallace 
A B Jones 
Isaac Ause 
John R A/organ 
Levi Holland 
Thomas Oram 



fFm Peden 

E J Benshoflf 

John Quincy Ad- 
ams Benshoff 

John rf'allace 

Isaac Teeter 

Jicob Teeter 
JOHNSTOWN 
FURNACE. 

John Galbreath 

R P Linton 

Geo Fickes 

Wm Arentrue 

TVm Sassaraen 

Geo WKepp 



Daniel W^GoughnourEmanuel Heller 
Joseph & Isaac JonesDavid D Dickey 
Michael Weakland Samuel Albright 



S Seely 

Nathaniel Caleri 

John Lightner 

Jacob J Benshoff 

Isaac D Goughnour 

Thomas Benson 

James Decker 

CONEMAUGHTP 

Geo L Bowser 

Henry Constable Jr. 

Geo Gates 

A McCleary 
John (Slick 
James Dalzell 

Eli A/eagley 
'ff^amuel J Horner 
J Henry Trefiz 
Adam Harshberger 
Elias B Horner 
Christian Horner Jr, 
Aiiewine Me(z 
Ezra Layton 
John Harshberger 
David Eash 
W A Benshoff 
Wm Horton 
David Williams 
iMichael McCauliff 
John Woodburn 
M Stewart 
Joseph H McDowell 
Thomas McCauliff 
John Morgan 
6'M McClelland 
Daniel Brophy 
John C Wisegarv 
D H Barns 
Elias Crisman 
J J Younker 
JohniJ/dler Jr 
John Moyers 
Robert L Horner 
John P Strayer 
Jacob P iS'trayer 
Elijah Marsh 
Obadiah ?Fard 
David Benshoff 
Jacob Knevel Jr 
Lewis Benshoff 
Jacob Stutzman 
Geo Beam Sr. 
Jonas & Adam Horner 
Jacob fVtucks 



4NAMES OK SUnSCRIBErr 



rjMUKlA FUR. 
j\//CE. 
A W Bryan 
V C Brunell 
Geo M Hess 
VVm Kooniz 
James McMillin 
Henry Hess sr 
Henry lless jr 
Dan;el Hess 
John T Morris 
David Wanders 
Jacob Zimmerman 
Wilson Etchson 
Win Renelys 
Michael VVirack 
Robert McBride 
Daniel Bechtel 
A'amuel Powell 
Uriah Hohz 
CONE AU UGH 
FURN.^CE. 
A M While 
R Decker 
John R lavage 
John Foslef 
Henry McNully 
Wilson Cramer 
Thomas Murilz 
James D Magill 
Michael Campbell 
John Fisher 
Wm Mathews 
James L Lawson 
Joseph Bowers 
iVlervin iWathews 
Joseph Peachl 
John King 
Henry Beard 
Andrevv <Sayder 
John [lannah 
Michael Cody 

INDMNJi IRON 

IfORKS. 
Geo W Sedgwick 
D I Painter 
C FGibbins 
Wm Mitchell 
Jacob Boyer sr. 
Thomas Brown 
Wm Murrits 
Peter Rose.r - » 



Henry H'hiie MILL CREEK 

James Anderson FURNACE. 

John D ^'clusher James Wilson 
B Warsong Martin Hyssong 

Jonathan Bracken J Kelly 
Michael SlrawsbaughJacob Ling 
John H Rannels A G Nichols 

Chislopher Eckels fP H B M'Connell 
John Campbell Wm Yutsler 

Geo Warsong Thomas Rankins 

Henry & Peter SwarlzDavid Anderson 



James Benn 
Thomas Swariz 
Jacob Painter 
Jacob Emfield 
Elijah Hill 
John Godard 
Thomas Hitchcock 
John Benshhoof 
BENS CREEK 
FURNACE. 
J Graham 
Wm T McKee 
A J fFigton 
.Samuel H Edmiston 
Thomas Barkley 
David Campbell 
James Coo^r 
Samuel Fergi^on 
James Campbell 
Wm Manges 
John Lilz 
Francis Giinneit 
Thomas L Beam 
David McKelvy 
Robert Hewstown 
Daniel Carmichael jr /onaihan Hauck. 



John Bail 
VVm Louiher 
Jacob Utsler 
Daniel Beringer 
Nicholas Hackenberry 
John Hile 
Nicholas Hyssong 
Thomas Lego 
John Edmiston 
Charles A Cellican 
James Bard 
Wm Rankins 
Jacob Cuckler 
Charles Donley 
James Price 
Simon Ritchey 
Daniel Donaldson 
John dinger sen 
John Donley 
Rev Wm Davis 

SOMERSET FUR- 
NACE. 

C. Township, 
Jeremiah Irwin 



3f 



Theophilus Boyd 
John Ream 
Jacob Ream 
Christian Miller 
R D Clifford 
Jesse Potter 
Henry Miller 
William Oyler 
John A Robison 
Adam Difabaugh 
John Inscho 
David Butler 
Peter Hare 
Patrick Shurly^ 
araes Fultin 



■ ■■u 



Hiram Craver 
John Matson 
Geo Shunk 
Godfray Lonberger 
Isadoar A Rifel 
Anthony Daniels 
John B Berkey 
Emanuel Moyers 
Geo Helsel 
James M Newnan 
James Sproul 
John dinger jr 
John M Bell 
John Gay 
John G Hare 
Abraham Riffel 
Wm Rose 
C W McDonnald 




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